Ben Carson’s campaign announced Tuesday the addition of George Birnbaum, former chief of staff to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as a foreign policy adviser.
Birnbaum will “work with Dr. Carson to present bold strategies to bolster America’s presence in the world and confront the challenges facing the country in 2016 and beyond,” according to a release.
The addition of the former Netanyahu aide follows a string of foreign policy blunders by the former neurosurgeon, who has recently fallen from his perch alongside Donald Trump atop the GOP field. Most recently, Carson gave a widely panned speech before the Republican Jewish Coalition last Thursday, during which he mispronounced “Hamas” multiple times.
“It is with pride and excitement that I join the Ben Carson for President 2016 team,” Birnbaum said in the statement. “Having worked with several Israeli prime ministers, I have seen firsthand how important the U.S.-Israel relationship is. Fundamental to that relationship is the President of the United States.
“Dr. Carson has a deep understanding of the challenges facing this country and a clear vision for her future. Dr. Carson will be an excellent leader for America, her allies and all those who cherish freedom,” Birnbaum said.
In his statement, the former neurosurgeon said Birnbaum’s knowledge will be “invaluable” in his campaign.
“I am thrilled to count George among my trusted advisers on foreign policy issues,” Carson said. “The challenges facing America today are immense. Whether defeating [the Islamic State] and other global terrorists or confronting Russian antagonism in Europe and the Middle East, I am committed to creating a stronger, more engaged United States, as well as rebuilding our vital and honored relationship with Israel. Mr. Birnbaum’s expertise will be invaluable in our push to restore America’s strength and prominence globally.”
Carson sits sixth in the Washington Examiner’s latest power rankings.
