WASHINGTON —  Former President Bill Clinton (search) has hired a new spokesman, a veteran of the Howard Dean 2004 presidential campaign and New York City's 2012 Olympics bid.

Jay Carson (search) was also a former press secretary for Sen. Tom Daschle, D-S.D., and has worked for the Democratic National Committee. Clinton's office announced Carson's hiring Tuesday.

Carson replaces Jim Kennedy (search), who announced he is leaving to become a spokesman for Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Kennedy has worked since 2002 as the chief spokesman for the former president. He also worked in the Clinton White House from 1998 to early 2001.