Romney campaign parts ways with debate coach

[February 04, 2012]  LAS VEGAS (AP) -- The debate coach who worked with Mitt Romney ahead of two well-received debate performances in Florida is no longer with the Republican's presidential campaign.

Romney's campaign on Friday indicated that Brett O'Donnell, who coached 2008 nominee John McCain, would no longer be working for Romney. No reason was given.

O'Donnell coached congresswoman Michele Bachmann until she dropped out of the race. He coached Romney through the debates in Tampa and Jacksonville that advisers say were key to Romney's win over Newt Gingrich in the Florida primary.

O'Donnell's departure was first reported by Politico. Romney's chief strategist, Stuart Stevens, told Politico he respects O'Donnell and would welcome the opportunity to work with him again.

O'Donnell did not respond to a request for comment.

[Associated Press; By KASIE HUNT]

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