Former GOP chair among Univ. of Chicago fellows

One-time Republican party Chairman Haley Barbour and President Barack Obama’s former speech writer will be among the fellows at the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics this spring.

Barbour is a former governor of Mississippi. He will discuss what Washington can learn from state government.

Jon Favreau will recount his experiences during eight years as Obama’s speech writer. And former U.S. Sen. Gary Hart will explore national security issues.

The institute is directed by former Obama senior adviser David Axelrod.

In a press release Axelrod said the roster is filled with “compelling leaders” from across the political spectrum who will inspire students.

Also on the list are former U.S. Rep. Steve LaTourette, former White House Cabinet Secretary Chris Lu and Bethany McLean, a contributing editor to Vanity Fair magazine.