Michael Steele and the RNC

I have known Michael Steele for over 10 years. In Maryland, we are part of a small fraternity, candidates for public office from the African-American segment of the Republican Party. I read with interest that Michael is looking to become the next chair of the Republican National Committee. I think this may be a good fit for both Steele and the RNC if Michael is willing to change the status quo.

Unfortunately, Steele has not been a “maverick” in any of his roles in either elected office or as a leader in the Republican Party. Michael is a team player and there is no problem with that approach. However, during his time as MD State Party Chair, Lt. Governor, and chairman of GOPAC, Steele has rarely forced our party to take a long, critical look at ourselves, our policies and how we communicate our message to the voters of our country.

One of the results of this type of team player is the electoral debacle of Tuesday night. This was the worst electoral college defeat of a Republican nominee in a open seat presidential election since the Civil War. Clearly, this is not the time for a team player. Now is the time for an independent minded leader who will change the paradigm and the mantra of a national party who has suffered two straight defeats and has gone from a majority party to a powerless minority in the Congress in less than four years.

Michael Steele is a good man, a credible conservative Republican, and will be a capable manager…unfortunately, the Republican Party does not need a manager, it needs a leader that will force people out of their comfort zones and back into political relevance. Steele has not proven that he can make that transition. If he is picked as RNC chair, I hope he proves me wrong.