FitzGerald loses 2 top campaign aides

COLUMBUS (AP) — Two top aides to Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ed FitzGerald have left his campaign, as the struggling challenger to Ohio Gov. John Kasich readjusts his strategy less than 50 days before early voting begins.

A spokeswoman confirmed Tuesday that campaign manager Nick Buis and communications director Daniel McElhatton have departed. Lauren Hitt said further staff announcements are expected by week’s end.

Hitt said the campaign remains focused on spreading its message that Ohio’s economic rebound under Kasich hasn’t done enough for the poor and middle-class. She said landing “a couple debates” with Kasich will help FitzGerald and the rest of the Democratic ticket.

FitzGerald, the Cuyahoga County executive, has come under fire in recent weeks for lacking a permanent driver’s license for more than a decade.