Rudy Giuliani Taps RNC Political Director To Run 2008 Committee

ABC News’ David Chalian Reports: Republican National Committee Political Director Mike DuHaime has signed on to run Rudy Giuliani’s 2008 exploratory committee and potential presidential campaign.

Heading up to New York brings DuHaime back to his Northeastern political roots from the days he served as executive director of the New Jersey Republican Party and when he headed up the Bush-Cheney ’04 political operation in the Northeast.

"We’re very excited that Michael DuHaime is signing on as Executive Director of the Exploratory Committee. He’s a huge talent with tremendous political acumen and a very welcome member of the team," said Giuliani adviser Tony Carbonetti.

The DuHaime hire demonstrates the Giuliani’s camp continued pursuit for people outside of the close-knit group of advisers and political operatives with whom Giuliani surrounded himself during his days at City Hall and since then at his firm, Giuliani Partners. Scooping up some staff talent with presidential campaign and national GOP political experience also suggests that Giuliani may be leaning a bit more in the direction of making a run for the White House than opting out of the 2008 sweepstakes.

Giuliani communications director Sunny Mindel adds that "Mike DuHaime has tremendous credibility in the field and a wealth of experience having served as the RNC political director."

Giuliani’s committee has scheduled a Manhattan fundraiser for next week.