Republican congressional candidate Vaughn Ward’s campaign manager is stepping down — 12 days before the primary and in the wake of a series of political missteps. Ward campaign consultant Mike Tracy confirmed Friday that Ward has accepted the resignation of Ryan O’Barto, who also served as spokesman. Tracy, a press secretary for former Idaho Sen. Larry Craig, told The Associated Press he will begin serving as campaign spokesman/AP via Eye On Boise. More here.

• Henderson joined Ward campaign two weeks ago/Eye On Boise
• Some communication issues I wanted to make stronger/Eye On Boise

DFO: If state R's are bringing in heavy hitters like Tracy & Al Henderson to save Ward's campaign, that means they haven't tossed Ward over for Raul Labrador. Interesting.