Embattled WI Guv Names New Staff, Including a Nevadan

(NN&V Staff) – Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker – facing a recall effort by organized labor – today announced the newest members of his campaign staff, a team Walker says will help get out to voters the positive message of how his reforms have laid the groundwork for a more successful Wisconsin.

“I am excited to work closely with this new team to take our message directly to Wisconsin voters; the crucial first steps I have taken as Governor to reform our state and put government back on the side of the people are working,” Governor Walker explained. “This is an experienced and talented team which will ultimately bring victory on Election Day.”

The Walker Team

Deputy Campaign Manager – Dan Blum

Dan Blum will serve as the campaign’s deputy campaign manager.  Dan has previously served as a member of Senator Rob Portman’s 2010 campaign staff.  In the 2008 cycle, Dan worked for the Republican National Committee. Dan has also spent time in the Office of the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate Republican Conference.

Communications Director – Ciara Matthews

Ciara Matthews will serve as communications director for the campaign. Ciara worked as communications director for the Nevada Republican Party before becoming a senior member of the communications team for a top tier U.S. Senate race in 2010. She served most recently as communications director for a national Political Action Committee and brings seven years of political experience to the campaign.

Deputy Communications Director – Tom Evenson

Tom Evenson will serve as deputy communications director for the campaign. Tom has worked for Governor Walker as press assistant and most recently as deputy press secretary in the Governor’s official office. He also worked for the Governor’s 2010 gubernatorial campaign as field representative.

Finance Director – Andrea Boom

Andrea Boom will serve as finance director for the campaign. Prior to joining the campaign, Andrea spent more than six years with the Wisconsin Association of Health Plans. As the director of administration and special projects, she focused on finance and coordinated the Association’s political conduit fund.  She worked closely with CEOs of the major health plans in Wisconsin.

Keith Gilkes will continue working with the Governor in an advisory role, while Mary Stitt and Dan Morse direct the Governor’s fundraising efforts. Brian Tringali with the Tarrance Group will also continue as the campaign’s pollster.