Ohio Republican Party chair Bob Bennett announced Wednesday that the party is expanding its grassroots efforts by hiring new staff members to its Ohio Victory Team. The newly hired team will expand outreach efforts into key communities throughout the state.

The new positions include outreach to Catholics, veterans, "values voters," and women.

"This team joins an already strong organization that the Ohio Republican Party has built and improved upon from past elections," Bennett said. "Grassroots outreach has always been a focus in Ohio, and that dedication has made us very successful in winning close elections.  This campaign will be no different, and with this team of talented professionals, we will deliver Ohio for John McCain and our Republican candidates throughout the state."

Bennett announced that Apps Akpofure will act as the party's Victory Coalitions Director. Akpofure has previously served as an aide to state Sen. William Seitz III (R-Cincinnati) on the Judiciary & Criminal Justice Committee.

Bennett further announced veteran communications specialist and campaign manager Dick Hammersmith as the Ohio Republican Party Outreach Coordinator for Catholics in Southwest Ohio.  U.S. Navy and Navy Reserves veteran Brian Hoyt will act as the party's Outreach Director for Veterans, while Gov. Mike Huckabee's (R-Ark.) Ohio campaign manager for his presidential bid, Jeff Longstreth, will serve as Coordinator for Values Voters.

Franklin County Republican Carol Porter will act as the party's Outreach Coordinator for Women, while Lake County Republican Lisa Sabath will work as Outreach Coordinator for Catholics in Northeast Ohio.