Tim Scott to Co-Chair Romney Black Leadership Council

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney is trailing President Obama in the polls with several groups of voters, and none more so that with black voters.

But he is not writing off that segment of voters. Yesterday Romney announced the formation of a Black Leadership Council for his campaign.

"I am proud to have the endorsements of so many leaders in the black community," Romney said in a press release. "They know all too well that the economic downturn that has continued to hammer our country has been even more devastating for black Americans. Together, we will work to end that downturn, and we will not rest until all Americans have the jobs they need, the quality education they are owed, and the opportunities they deserve."

Moving forward the new Council will be charged with helping to facilitate dialogue between the campaign and leaders whose expertise, experience and knowledge will provide a window into a number of issues facing black Americans, according to Romney's campaign website.

Among the leaders of the new Council is Charleston's own Rep. Tim Scott. Scott is joined by Rep. Alan West of Florida and Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carrol as National Council Chairs.

Several other black political leaders from across the country are also involved as Advisory Council Members including former S.C. Republican Party Chair Glenn McCall.

Other Advisory Council Members include Texas State Rep. Stefani Carter, Saratoga Springs (Utah) Mayor and congressional candidate Mia Love, Texas Commissioner of Education Michael Williams, President and Founder of the Gloucester Institute Kay Coles James, former Rep. Artur Davis, former Michigan State Sen. Bill Hardiman, Ethnic Vice Chair of the Michigan Republican Party Linda Lee Tarver, Deputy Chairwoman of the Republican Party of Pennsylvania Renee Amoore, Franklin County (Ohio) Auditor Clarence Mingo, Ryan L. Frazier, Romney for President Colorado Grassroots Chairman Leondray Gholston, North Carolina RNC Committeewoman Ada Fisher, Hall County (Georgia) Commissioner Ashley Bell, Pastor Ira Combs, former NFL player Burgess Owens, Stanley Jackson, and President of the Ohio Black Republican Association Brenda Mack.