Bloomberg Sucks Up To GOP By Hiring McCain Spokeswoman

The press following the massive Democratic-leaning hirings by Mayor Bloomberg probably irked many Republicans, especially the party chairs in the five boroughs that control who gets on their ticket this November. So what does a party-apprehensive billionaire do? Hire a Republican to be his campaign spokeswoman of course! After being a part of the losing McCain effort, Jill Hazelbaker is coming to Bloomberg 09'. When asked about it by Azi, Bloomberg goes on the defensive.

From PolitickerNY:

Asked by Azi at a press conference today about the fact that he still hasn't guaranteed himself a spot on the Republican line -- or any other, for that matter -- Bloomberg offered a terse non-response: "I don't know who you're addressing the question to. I'm not running the campaign. If you're talking about my election, you'll have to talk to the campaign.”

And of course, the campaign has a nice little bio to present:

Jill Hazelbaker most recently served as the National Communications Director for Senator John McCain's presidential campaign, from McCain's come-from-behind primary victory through the general election. Prior to joining the McCain campaign, Hazelbaker served as Communications Director for Tom Kean Jr.'s bid for U.S. Senate from New Jersey. Before the Kean campaign, Hazelbaker was an Associate with Mercury Public Affairs based in New York City.

"Jill brings to the table a skill set that is valuable to any campaign and Mayor Bloomberg is fortunate to have her onboard. I wish him and the campaign all the best," said U.S. Senator John McCain.

"Mayor Bloomberg is a pragmatic leader who gets results and it's a privilege to join his campaign," said Hazelbaker.

"Jill is one of the most talented communications professionals in the country. We are lucky to have her aboard," said Howard Wolfson.

Or to sum up, your standard line for a political consultant that has been working for at least a few cycles. Now I am sure Ms. Hazelbaker is good at what she does, even if she was with the losing campaign, it was still at the Presidential level. Whether or not her presence will actually help curry favor with the local GOP, that remains to be seen.