CHICAGO - The Alexi for Illinois campaign announced today the hire of Matt McGrath as deputy communications director.  In that role, McGrath will serve as a campaign spokesperson, as well as help to craft the campaign's message, highlighting the inconsistencies in Congressman Mark Kirk's grossly out-of-touch record. McGrath, a California native with deep Chicago roots, most recently served as the communications director for the Dan Hynes for Governor campaign.
 
"I am pleased to have Matt on board," Illinois Treasurer and Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Alexi Giannoulias said.  "He is a great addition to our campaign team, and his experience and relationships across Illinois will help us communicate our message effectively."
 
McGrath has extensive experience in Illinois politics, and was an integral part of the Hynes campaign surge, which erased a 27-point deficit to come within 8,000 votes, or less than one percent, of wining the February primary.
 
"I am honored to do my part to join such a strong team and help make Alexi Giannoulias our next Senator," McGrath said. "Alexi is the best candidate to work with President Obama to solve problems and make sure people come first, not the special interests."
 
McGrath served as the Obama for America Ohio trip director during the 2008 general election, after having worked for both of John Edwards' presidential campaigns.  He has had senior roles on statewide, congressional, and local races coast-to-coast, including Alaska.  McGrath lives in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago.