MICHAEL STEELE RUNNING FOR RNC CHAIRMAN

Amidst much speculation and reports of, "infighting," between Newt Gingrich and Michale Steele concerning the race for the Republican National Committee Chairman, the truth is finally coming to light. Michael Steele, former Lt. Governor of Maryland is seeking and the top candidate for RNC Chairman. Reports of Newt Gingrich also seeking the post were false as well as media accusations of infighting between the two.

Gingrich has thrown his support behind Steele and will work with him to create a new strategy for the party. With the support of Gingrich and his non-profit think tank, Steele is expected easily win the Chairmanship.

That in itself is great news for the party because Steele is a strong conservative who has been critical of the Republican Parties drift away from conservative ideals and policy. In an interview from the Baltimore Sun, Steele stated becoming the party of the future the GOP needed to emulate Ronald Reagan who, "made it cool to be a Republican." Steele continued concerning President Reagan, "It wasn't just his specific policies, but the timeless truths he so eloquently gave voice to, and upon which his policies were based. That's the Republican Party we must re-establish."

With respect to overcoming the Democrat majority and winning the last two elections Steele said, "Our challenge lies not in beating Democrats, but in uniting around a message that solidifies our ranks and attracts new people to our cause. We have to listen to what Americans are telling us about their hopes, desires and needs, and then translate that message into proposals for meaningful action squarely grounded in values we Republicans have always stood for."

Steele has long been known for his conservative ideas and embracing the Reagan philosophy of conservatism. He understands the challenges that the GOP faces but also realizes that in order to face those challenges standing firm on real and proven conservative principles is the key to not only winning elections but in presenting to the American people ideas and policy that voters understand and can support.

Emulating Reagan conservatism does not imply that with Steele at the helm the GOP will be looking for another Reagan. Rather by returning to strong conservative ideals and seeking new and fresh candidates who also understand and stand on those ideals, the GOP can once again connect with voters through ideas and answers for today's issues rather than just being anti-Democrat. An approach that failed in the last two elections.

This is not the first time Steele has sought the RNC chair. He was considered a top candidate when the chairmanship was available after the last election but did not have the backing to win. Now Steele is considered the top candidate with the backing and the best opportunity for victory.

Steele will bring to the GOP as RNC Chairman an opportunity with the help of Newt Gingrich in restoring the credibility and conservative values of the Republican Party and offer new faces as well as well tested and responsible conservative ideas for the future of the GOP looking toward 2010 and 2012.


Ken Taylor