Pawlenty Hires Nick Ayers (Who Claims God’s Calling) As Campaign Manager
Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, who is exploring a run for president, has announced a top-flight staff hire — former Republican Governors Association executive director Nick Ayers is coming on board as campaign manager for Pawlenty’s exploratory committee. Though as Ayers himself says, his signing up isn’t so much answering a call from Pawlenty — but from God.
Ayers, age 28, led the RGA from 2007-2010, overseeing a big budget organization, in a period when the GOP made very strong gains in governorships. Ayers will relocate to Minnesota from his native Georgia, and assume his new position effective April 25.
….As Ben Smith reports, Ayers has released a lengthy e-mail annoucing his decision and all that went into it. Key quote:
Over the past six months, I have prayed deeply about my purpose in life and how best to utilize the talents God has given me. I wanted my decision to be wholly about how best to serve Him, not what was most politically or financially expedient for my family and me. As He often does in walks of faith, He has called me to a higher purpose. I believe that our Nation is truly on the wrong path. We need a new direction that is positive and hopeful. Simply said, we need new leadership. I believe that Governor Pawlenty is best positioned to provide that leadership. Therefore, I am pleased today to join Governor and Mrs. Pawlenty in their pursuit of the presidency.
See TP for links and the rest of the statement