By Eric Kleefeld - June 8, 2008, 4:38PM
With the Democratic nomination race now truly over, Barack Obama's campaign is transitioning into a full general-election mode -- including some key staff hires from the Hillary camp.
For one thing, the Obama camp is recruiting Aaron Pickrell, the top political strategist for Hillary-backing Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland, to run the campaign in that crucial state. The Obama team has also been considering hiring Patti Solis Doyle, the former campaign manager for Hillary, to serve in some capacity.
In addition, Obama's expected financial advantage over John McCain will give him an opportunity not too many Democrats get: To truly expand the playing field and force McCain to compete in usually-reliable GOP states like Alaska, North Carolina and Mississippi.
http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsmemo.com/2008/06/obama_shifting_gears_for_gener.phpTaking the fight to them. Anyone who thought Obama is wet behind the ears never saw him coming. (I include myself in that group.)