According to CNN, Tim Pawlenty’s campaign manager is trying to reassure the former governor’s campaign staff that things aren’t as bad as they seem.
Nick Ayers, Pawlenty’s campaign manager, apparently sent out an email on Friday telling staffers that there was still time to turn the Minnesota Republican’s campaign around.
Only a month before the Ames Straw Poll, Pawlenty is only polling two percent in Iowa, according to a poll released earlier this week by the American Research Group — a startlingly dismal showing in a state where Pawlenty has invested heavily, both in terms of time and money.
“In four weeks, we will compete in the Ames Straw Poll, a proud tradition for Iowa Republicans and our team, led by Sarah Huckabee Sanders, is working hard and smart to show we’re organized,” wrote Ayers, a native of Georgia.
“This contest is a dream for candidates like Michele Bachmann and Ron Paul. But instead of dodging it as other candidates have, we have embraced the challenge and look forward to competing,” continued Ayers. “We were in 5th or 6th place a few weeks ago depending on the poll, and the Straw Poll is an important opportunity for us to show progress, which we will do. In the days leading up to the Straw Poll, the Governor will be campaigning in Iowa 20 out of 30 days, our strong message will be on the airwaves, and most importantly, we have the candidate with the best record who can actually get elected President next year.”
Ayers, 28, who formerly served as the executive director of the Republican Governors Association (RGA) under the direction of then-chairman Haley Barbour, was tapped as Pawlenty’s campaign manager in early April.
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