Michael Steele Leaves RNC: “…now I Exit Stage-Right”

14 Jan, 2011 by Jane Jamison

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Yes, Michael, we will remember you, all right.

Update:: Reince Preibus is the new Republican National Committee chairman.

Incumbent Michael Steele, who saw his support steadily drop, dropped out of the race for Republican National Committee chairman after the fourth round of voting.

He endorsed former George W. Bush administration official Maria Cino. She gained eleven votes in the next round of voting but Wisconsin Republican Party Chairman Reince Priebus remained the frontrunner.

Former Michigan GOP Chairman Saul Anuzis moved into third and former Missouri Republican Party chairwoman is in last.

At this time I will step aside for others to lead,” Steele told members. “I think the party is: : ready for something different.”

Steele also asked members to remember his tenure in a positive light.

“Despite the difficulties, we won,” he said, to a standing ovation.

“Barack Obama’s agenda is not good for America. We fired Pelosi. Let’s take the Senate, let’s take the White House. Let’s heal America,” he said. “Thank you for the opportunity to serve and to lead, and now I exit stage-right.”

Members stood again to deliver an ovation as he exited.

[…]

“At this time I will step aside for others to lead,” he told members. “I think the party is ready for something different.”

Here are the fifth-round results:

– Wisconsin Republican Party Chairman Reince Priebus: : : : : : : : : : : 67

– Former Bush administration official Maria Cino: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : 40

– Former Michigan Republican Party Chairman Saul Anuzis: : : : : : 32

– Former Missouri Republican Party Chairwoman Ann Wagner: : 28