The state Democratic party's communications director is stepping down to run Tony Raimondo's U.S. Senate campaign.

Eric Fought said Raimondo is a different kind of candidate because he's not a career politician and has a compelling story to tell.

Raimondo is chairman of Columbus-based Behlen Manufacturing.

He was a Republican but switched parties late last year. Raimondo had considered running as a Republican, but said Republican Mike Johanns' entry into the race convinced him he couldn't raise the money to win the GOP primary.

Also running is Pat Flynn, a Republican and Schuyler businessman.

In the Democratic primary, Raimondo faces Larry Marvin, who said he's an Air Force veteran, property owner and longtime active Democrat.