The American Spectator

Washington Prowler

(Page 2 of 2)

, a conservative elected to the House in 1994 from Winston-Salem. White House consigliere Karl Rove has been touting Burr and working with the state party to tamp down other potential candidates who might be considering a run. A few weeks ago, for example, North Carolina Rep. Robin Hayes had expressed interest in exploring a Senate run, but given the challenges he's expected to face running for re-election to the House in a slightly Democratic-leaning district, it's doubtful he'd be encouraged to run. /p>

Burr on the other hand, may be in the best position to run. Incumbent Sen. John Edwards may choose not to seek re-election if he goes full-bore on the presidential trail, leaving the seat open in a state that went strongly Republican last go-round. Further, Burr's district has a number of high-tech and medical research facilities, a natural fundraising base. To enhance Burr's standing, the White House is looking for him to help walk the point for the administration's health-care reform proposals, including its prescription drug plan and other Medicare reforms. Both are issues Burr has dealt with in the past, and his successes would nicely play off Edwards, who failed in his attempt to get a patients bill of rights passed in the 107th Congress.

topics:
Nancy Pelosi, Iraq, Iran, Medicare