Walker readies himself as the candidate of the mainstream Conservative Movement

(Stephen Hayes, The Weekly Standard) – When Scott Walker formalizes his presidential run Monday with a long-anticipated announcement, he will have at his side a seasoned veteran of Republican politics and an architect of the modern conservative movement. THE WEEKLY STANDARD has learned that Walker is expected to name Michael Grebe as campaign chairman as early as Friday.

Grebe’s role, while not unexpected, is nonetheless a coup for Walker, who has firmly established himself as a first-tier candidate for the 2016 Republican nomination. Grebe served as chairman of both of Walker’s bids for governor, as well as Walker’s 2012 recall election – so he knows the candidate well.

Grebe brings vast experience in electoral politics, election law, and the conservative movement to the Walker team. He has served as general counsel of the Republican National Committee and as a Republican committeeman from Wisconsin. Grebe is currently president of the Milwaukee-based Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, a position he has held since 2002. The powerhouse grantmaking foundation has driven conservative policy innovation for decades and, in addition to the civic and charity work it has performed in Wisconsin, has been one of the most important forces behind the modern conservative movement.

“He has this unique combination of talent and experience in politics and policy that makes him one of the most respected people I’ve known,” says Karl Rove, former top adviser to George W. Bush.

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