House GOP creates 'rapid response' panel

WASHINGTON, May 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. House of Representatives Republican leader has created a special "rapid-response" advisory panel aimed at smoothing an expected hectic November.

The plan from Minority Leader Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio, is for the 12-member group to work with the National Republican Congressional Committee on such issues as strategy coordination, fundraising and member outreach in specific congressional districts, Politico reported.

A number of Republicans, however, questioned privately whether the new board, which includes members of the NRCC's current executive committee, will be able to help the party regroup after some major losses.

One of the new board members, Rep. John Kline, R-Minn., said its creation will make it clear that Boehner and NRCC Chairman Tom Cole must work together.