It appears that the next leader of the Republican Party may be just the thing the GOP needs to get back to conservatism and a winning strategy nationwide.
A behind-the-scenes battle to take the reins of the Republican National Committee is taking off between former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele.
Both of these men are strong conservatives and would serve as a good image for the Republican Party. My vote is for Newt because he has a history of winning and then holding his winners accountable.
There may just be another revolution coming…
UPDATE
Newt Gingrich is not considering this run.
In a statement issued by the former House speaker, Gingrich said he was not interested in seeking the post of Republican Party chairman.
“A number of people have asked me to consider running for Republican National Committee chair. They have been very flattering, and I am very honored by their support,” he said.
“However, my job as an American first is to develop a tri-partisan approach to developing solutions for the challenges we face. I use the word tri-partisan to designate the concept of attracting Democrats, Republicans, and independents to solutions that unify most Americans.”
Michael Steele is very popular among Republicans, so he will probably win this spot. I have a few concerns.
Primarily, Mr. Steele, though a very elegant speaker and strong conservative, has not convinced me of his skills at winning elections. He was able to clinch the Leutinant Governor job in the liberal state of Maryland, but was DESTROYED in the senate race in 2006. The primary role of the chairman of the GOP is to organize a strategy to win elections nationwide. I don’t doubt Mr. Steele’s abilities. I just havent been convinced yet.
He is seeking the endorsment of Mr. Gingrich, and would likely solicit his help and advice in the position. However, given Mr. Obama’s recent election, I’m concerned with the cynicism that might come attached with an Afican American chairman. If Mr. Steele truly is the best leader that the party has to offer, more power to him and I would fully support his bid. However, if his election is nothing more than an attempt to pander to black Americans, I would have sincere concerns.
Let’s hope this unfolds nicely.
Tags: GOP, Michael Steele, Newt
November 11, 2008 at 8:22 pm |
I was stoked about Newt as well – and I’m totally with you on the race issue. Honestly, I had the same concern about Jindal – I would hate for any deserving leader to have their position questioned (or, on the flip side, undeserving leader given a position) because of their skin color. However, I think the RNC and GOP as a whole need all the fresh faces they can get.