Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty made an important addition to his 2012 presidential campaign team. Nick Ayers has agreed to be his campaign manager. Reports the Washington Post:

Ayers, who served as executive director of the Republican Governors Association during the 2008 and 2010 election cycles, was courted by at least four other potential presidential candidates. He is currently helping to lead the transition effort at the Republican National Committee under chairman Reince Priebus.

Pawlenty, who worked with Ayers as vice chair of the RGA during the 2010 cycle, called him “one of the best political talents in America,” adding: “His leadership and record of winning tough races in every part of our country will provide even more momentum to our campaign to get America back on track.”

It is interesting to note that Ayers worked for Haley Barbour, a potential Pawlenty rival, at the RGA.