Political insiders have been buzzing in recent weeks over talk that well-known Valley public relations guru Jason Rose could be wading into the race for City Council in south Phoenix’s District 8.
Several people familiar with the campaign of Pastor Warren Stewart said Rose was approached recently by top surrogates concerned about lackluster fundraising numbers. Stewart has been far outraised by opponents Kate Gallego and Lawrence Robinson.
But Stewart’s camp pushed back hard against the chatter, denying the controversial PR executive will play any role: “He was recommended to us, and we declined,” said Karl Gentles, campaign director.
Rose, a Republican whose politics might irk some voters in the left-leaning district, declined to discuss the conjuncture, saying he has deep respect for the civil-rights leader. He donated to Stewart’s campaign but has “no other role.”
“Historic figure and the kind of person you want stepping into the arena,” Rose said in an e-mail.
