McCain Shifting Campaign Into General Election Mode

'Regional manager' approach draws criticism within party
By Jonas Oransky,  Newser Staff
Posted Apr 1, 2008 6:08 PM CDT
McCain Shifting Campaign Into General Election Mode
Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain.   (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

John McCain plans to keep a decentralized campaign structure heading into the general election, with 10 regional managers who will make on-the-ground decisions, the Washington Post reports. The unusual move is part of McCain's efforts to turn his campaign team—one that often flew by the seat of its pants out of necessity and a lack of funds during primary season—into a formidable force for the general election.

One GOP critic called the strategy a "recipe for internal communication problems." Others say McCain, who faces a huge fundraising gap with Democrats, isn't taking full advantage of the Democrats' continuing battle. But McCain aides cite the formation of the GOP's Victory Committee and the addition of a former honcho from Goldman Sachs as evidence that the money problems will soon be under control. (More John McCain stories.)

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