Via email from the Steve Harrison campaign:

For Immediate Release June 27 2008

Democratic Congressional Candidate Steve Harrison names former Deutsche Bank director Greg Collett campaign manager

(Staten Island/Brooklyn) Democratic Congressional Candidate Steve Harrison (NY 13 CD Staten Island/Southwest Brooklyn) has named former Deutsche Bank director Greg Collett campaign manager. Collett, a George Washington University Law School grad, recently stepped down as a director at Deutsche Bank, where he developed and managed the Bank’s exchange traded commodity fund business. Collett replaces Laura Sword, who stepped down from the campaign earlier this week.

Before his work at Deutsche Bank, Mr. Collett had experience as a legislative aide to a New Jersey State Senator and on various campaigns.

In 2006, Harrison against long time incumbent Vito Fossella, received a higher percentage of the vote than any Democrat ever, under NY‘s 13th Congressional District’s current configuration. A scandal ridden Fossella has declined to seek re-election in 2008.

"Greg first contacted me last year looking for a volunteer position on the campaign after hearing our message," said Harrison. “I was humbled to have someone with Greg’s credentials, so we included him in the campaign in a fund raising capacity."

"In light of Greg’s ample organizational and communication skills, when he became available this week, the choice became obvious," continued Harrison. He has the skill set, drive, and dedication to be successful. He has an infectious winning attitude that should inspire our many volunteers. I’m thrilled to work with Greg. He will be a fresh presence in the district with a fresh perspective on the race.”

"I sought Steve out because I believe in his progressive message of hope," said Collett. "I was impressed with his passion and perseverance and most of all by his willingness to take on powerful forces and fight for what he believes is right.” Steve is a true champion for the people of Staten Island and Brooklyn. Steve is the true Democrat in this race, and we’ll get that message to the voter. I intend to work 24/7 to get him into Congress. You’ll see some innovative strategies emerge that I think will resonate with voters. We have a lot of work to do, but we have an army of dedicated volunteers to do it. My job is to coordinate and motivate that army."

Long time Harrison volunteer, David Hernandez of Staten Island, is the campaign’s new field coordinator. Hernandez, who was viewed by many as an MVP of Harrison’s highly successful 2006 field operation, was active in General Wesley Clark’s Presidential Campaign and instrumental in securing Clark’s 06 Harrison endorsement. Hernandez is also a member of the Richmond County Democratic Committee.

The rest of the campaign team remains in place with Alice Harrison serving as Treasurer, Reciprocal Results CEO, Roy Moskowitz, handling communications and Ahmed Kokon, continuing on as Internet Director.