Politicker NY reports that Mayor Bloomberg's 2009 re-election team has added Jill Hazelbaker, the communications director for Senator John McCain's 2008 presidential bid, as a "move to boost his credibility with Republicans." (The independent Mayor wouldn't mind being on the Republican line in the voting booth.) The Mayor Mike 3X team includes notable Democratic strategists, including Hillary Clinton's longtime communications bulldog Howard Wolfson. Wolfson said of Hazelbacker's hiring, "Jill is one of the most talented communications professionals in the country. We are lucky to have her aboard." Even McCain weighed in, "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."
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