Gingrey hires new campaign manager

Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-Ga.) has brought on a new campaign manager following a late-year exodus of top campaign staffers in his run for the Senate.

{mosads}Gingrey has hired Patrick Sebastian, who most recently helped the Republican National Committee’s efforts to reelect New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R). Before that, he headed the RNC’s efforts to help Mitt Romney win North Carolina.

Sebastian comes in following the November departure of four top Gingrey staffers after a rocky beginning to the congressman’s Senate campaign. The staffers, including his general consultant and campaign manager, cited a “difference of opinion” with Gingrey over the campaign’s direction. Gingrey has made a series of controversial comments on social issues that has national Republican strategists worried about his viability in the general election.

Cam Savage, Gingrey’s new general consultant, says Sebastian will be a “great addition” to the campaign.

Gingrey is one of eight Republicans in a crowded field to replace retiring Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.). Democrats have coalesced around charity executive Michelle Nunn (D), the daughter of former Sen. Sam Nunn (D-Ga.).

Georgia-based political blog Peach Pundit first reported the hire.

—This post was updated at 11:45 a.m.