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Steele to run for second term as RNC head

RNC Chairman Michael Steele, shown on Nov. 2, 2010, in Washington. UPI/Roger L. Wollenberg
RNC Chairman Michael Steele, shown on Nov. 2, 2010, in Washington. UPI/Roger L. Wollenberg | License Photo

WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele told party officials in Washington Monday he will seek a second term.

Steele made his plans known during a conference call with RNC members late Monday, The Hill reported.

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Citing prepared remarks, the Capitol Hill publication quoted Steele as saying he merits re-election because the GOP captured the House and gained seats in the Senate.

"We achieved that in part because we adhered to two important principles: consistency and inclusion," Steele said.

Key supporters had said they expected Steele, a former Maryland lieutenant governor, to drop out of consideration.

Steele had sent committee members an e-mail during the weekend with "Conference call" in the subject line, Politico said.

Despite Republican gains in Congress in the November midterm elections, Steele has been criticized for his gaffe-prone tenure and his inability to raise enough money. The RNC will select a chairman for the 2012 election cycle next month.

Challengers include Wisconsin Republican Chairman Reince Priebus; Ann Wagner of Missouri, former co-leader of the RNC; Maria Cino, a longtime GOP official backed by former RNC Chairman Ed Gillespie and former Vice President Dick Cheney; Saul Anuzis, former Michigan Republican chairman; and Gentry Collins, who was RNC political director until last month.

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