Former N.C. Senator Reshuffles Presidential Campaign Staff

John Edwards is reshuffling the ranks of his top staff, adding two prominent Democratic operatives as senior advisers and shifting some responsibilities from campaign manager David Bonior.

Paul Blank and Chris Kofinis are leaders of the labor-backed anti-Wal-Mart effort "Wake Up Wal-Mart." They were expected to join the Edwards campaign as early as next week.

Mr. Blank would take over day-to-day campaign operations, while Mr. Kofinis would serve as communications director.

The deal was expected to be completed within the next few days.

Mr. Blank was political director for Howard Dean's 2004 presidential effort and remains close to former Dean campaign manager Joseph Trippi, who is now serving as a senior adviser to the Edwards effort.

Mr. Bonior would retain the title of campaign manager but step up his role as public spokesman for the campaign. He's also expected to travel extensively with Mr. Edwards.