Politics

Tennessee economic development officer takes leave to work on Romney transition team

Alexis Levinson Political Reporter
Font Size:

Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign snagged a top Tennessee government official, who will step down from his post as state commissioner on economic and community development to serve on Romney’s transition team.

Bill Hagerty will take leave from his post in the Tennessee government effective September 17, The Tennesseean reports.

Hagerty will work with the Romney “presidential readiness team” through election day.

The transition team is being run by former Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt. Hagerty held a similar role during Sen. John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign.

[RELATED: A storm is brewing inside the Romney transition]

Hagerty has known Romney for many years, since the time they both worked as consultants in Boston. He served as a member of Romney’s fundraising team during his 2008 presidential bid.

“Bill’s background makes him a logical choice to serve in this role,” Tennessee Republican Gov. Bill Haslam said in a press release. “He will do a great job.”

Follow Alexis on Twitter