Michael Steele becomes first black RNC chairman

[alienlovechild 75]

WASHINGTON – Michael Steele was elected Republican National Committee chairman on Friday, defeating the incumbent party chief and three other challengers over six rounds of voting to become the first black to lead the GOP. The former Maryland lieutenant governor takes over a beleaguered GOP as Republicans seek to rebound from back-to-back defeats in national elections that gave Democrats control of Congress and the White House.

"As a little boy growing up in this town, this is awesome," said Steele, the most moderate candidate in the field and considered an outsider because he's not a committee member.

In a brief acceptance speech, the new GOP chairman struck a tone of inclusiveness.

"We're going to say to friend and foe alike: We want you to be a part of us, we want you to with be with us, and for those who wish to obstruct, get ready to get knocked over," Steele said.

He won 91 votes out of a possible 168 in the sixth round. A simple majority of 85 was needed, but it took six rounds for Steele to win

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/republicans

[Uncle Wally 2]

I saw a clip of the swearing in ceremony, and I'm pretty sure he was the only black dude in the room.

[EstebanTrabajos 7]

They are pretty serious with the change of image huh?

Black is the new white!

[peejay 327]

There are black conservatives and black Republicans. Human Events has several black writers that contribute to the site. Black people are not monolithic and whites aren't either. It is just a matter of time before the message of lower taxes and less government resonates with more and more blacks. Black evangelicals showed that consevative issues are their issues with Prop. 8 in California. The idea that blacks should automatically vote Democratic is absurd. Look at the issues and vote your best interests. Don't be a sheep.

[one...two...tree 2,762]

...the most moderate candidate in the field and considered an outsider because he's not a committee member.

A good move by the GOP. Run the the Right Wing extremists out of the Party!