Two Iowa pols get new communications directors

Former Governor Terry Branstad has hired well-known Iowa political operative Tim Albrecht as his communications director for a (more than likely/almost certain/who has any doubts?) 2010 race seeking a fifth term as governor.  Congressman Bruce Braley (D-Waterloo, Iowa) has hired a new communications director to replace Iowa native Jeff Giertz.  The new Braley hire worked for John Edwards’ 2008 Iowa campaign.  Braley, as you may recall, backed Edwards.  Read the information on those staffing developments below.

Governor Branstad 2010 Committee Names Tim Albrecht as Director of Communications

(URBANDALE, Iowa) – The Governor Branstad 2010 Committee today named Iowa Republican strategist Tim Albrecht as its Communications Director. Albrecht will handle media relations, new media and the online efforts of the campaign. He officially begins today.

“We are excited to have Tim join this campaign,” said Branstad committee leader Jeff Boeyink. “His extraordinary experience in both traditional and new media will be beneficial as we move forward in our efforts. His addition shows growing momentum as Governor Branstad explores a possible gubernatorial bid.”

Albrecht previously served on the campaigns of presidential candidate Steve Forbes and gubernatorial candidate Steve Sukup. He served four years as Communications Director for House Speaker Christopher Rants, R-Sioux City. He then served as the Iowa Press Secretary for Gov. Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign, and currently is Communications Director for the American Future Fund – a nationwide conservative grassroots advocacy group based in Iowa.

“Governor Branstad is tested, proven and ready to lead this state in a positive direction,” said Albrecht. “Iowans in every corner of the state are concerned about mounting job and economic losses, as well as the bleak outlook of this state’s finances. It is time for us to have a strong leader in the governor’s office who will focus on moving Iowa forward.”

Albrecht served clients through his full-service communications firm, Albrecht Public Relations, and ran the popular conservative-leaning news aggregator http://www.TheBeanWalker.com, which Albrecht says will continue under a new publisher to maintain the integrity and independence of the site throughout the primary and general elections.

(Below is email sent by Jeff Giertz on 9/25/9)

Friends and colleagues—

I wanted to let you know that I will soon be moving on from Rep. Bruce Braley’s office.  Starting on Monday, October 5th, I will begin working in a new role as Communications Director for the Senate campaign of US Rep. Charlie Melancon in Louisiana.  Rep. Melancon is running for Senate against incumbent Sen. David Vitter.  My last day with Rep. Braley will be next Friday, October 2nd—one week from today. 

To the members of the media — It has been a pleasure working with you over the last three-plus years.  Iowa is home to me and it has been a wonderful experience serving the people of our state alongside Congressman Braley.  I couldn’t be prouder of what Congressman Braley has accomplished since he was sworn-in in 2007.  I will miss Iowa over the next year, but I hope the separation is only temporary.

11/2/09: New Communications Director Joins Braley’s Staff

Washington, DC – Congressman Bruce Braley (D-Iowa) announced today Caitlin Legacki will serve as communications director in his Washington D.C. Congressional office. Legacki lived in Iowa during the 2008 presidential caucus when she worked for former U.S. Senator John Edwards’ press office in Des Moines.

Most recently, Legacki served as press secretary for U.S. Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC). During the 2008 general election, Legacki served as press secretary on Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s (D-NH) Senate campaign and is a graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“I’m excited to add Caitlin’s experience and motivation to my team,” Braley said. “She’s very familiar with the people of Iowa and related issues, which make her a great fit. Caitlin has a diverse background of experience and a passion for this field that will make her a unique asset to my office.”