WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Gentry Collins, the former Republican National Committee political director, says he's considering whether to run for the committee's chairmanship.
His announcement Tuesday comes a week after he resigned from his RNC post in a letter ripping Chairman Michael Steele and his leadership, The Washington Post reported Wednesday.
"I have been encouraged by many friends, both on the committee and from outside the committee, to take this step as the RNC prepares to elect a chairman in January," Collins said in a statement. "This week, I will continue to visit with members around the country and will enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with my family."
Papers to form a 527 committee called "Collins for Chairman" have been filed, ABC News reported. Former Iowa Republican Party chairman Brian Kennedy, who filed the papers on behalf of Collins, said Collins is a "proven party leader who has gotten results."
Steele hasn't announced whether he will seek re-election.
The only declared candidate is former Michigan Republican Party chairman Saul Anuzis.
The Washington Post said other potential contenders include Wisconsin Republican Party chairman Reince Priebus, former Ambassador to Luxembourg Ann Wagner, former RNC official Maria Cino, former South Carolina Republican Party chairman Katon Dawson, California Republican Party Chairman Ron Nehring and Connecticut Republican Party Chairman Chris Healy.
