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The AP reports:

 DES MOINES, Iowa -- Former New York Mayor Rudy   Giuliani has hired prominent Iowa Republican Jim Nussle to advise him on his possible presidential run.

Nussle, a former congressman and 2006 candidate for governor, will play "an important leadership on behalf of the exploratory committee both in Iowa and nationally," Giuliani said in a statement.

If Giuliani is seeking help in Iowa, it's another indication he's serious about running. Also worth noting is this part of the story:

There are deep philosophical differences between the two Republicans.

Giuliani supports abortion rights and gay rights. Nussle took a strong anti-abortion stance in his campaign and wants a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage.

Nussle said he's focusing on Giuliani's accomplishments and suggested Giuliani's actions after the 2001 terrorist attacks impressed voters who want a strong leader.

That, of course, is the key for Giuliani. He has to be able to convince Republican voters that in treacherous times like these, strong leadership and steadfastness in the fight against terrorism should trump disagreements over social issues. Will he pull it off? Only time will tell. But it's looking more and more likely that he'll give it his best shot.

topics:
Abortion, Constitution