Six weeks ago, it looked to be a historical day for Republicans and African-Americans. Former Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele was elected the new chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC). Back then, Steele was considered to be one of the most moderate members of the GOP. However, Steele is also the first African-American to be the leader of the GOP.
However, things have gotten off to a rocky start. While Steele is the new RNC chairman, he is charged with the task of fixing the party. Back in 2008, the Republicans have suffered major losses. They lost the White House. The Democrats have worn a much stronger majority in the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives.
So far, Steele may find himself in a “power-struggle” with conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh. Limbaugh has been very vocal ever since United States President Barack Obama came into office. For those that remembered, Limbaugh said that he hopes that Obama fails. One could ask: Who really is the leader of the GOP?
While Steele is legally the leader, being the “real leader” is up for question. One could ask: What is Steele’s political future let alone future with the GOP is?
Recently, Steele was interviewed by GQ magazine. A possible gaffe has been discovered in the interview. When questioned on abortion, Steele said that abortion was an individual’s choice. One could tie that in with a woman’s right to choose. Today, he said that he feels that Roe v. Wade should be overturned.
One could ask: Why would Steele say abortion is an individual’s choice and then say that Roe v. Wade should be overturned?
Abortion is an individual’s right to choose. At the same time, a reversal on Roe v. Wade would ban abortions. In this respect, this is very contradictory. It is a paradox at best on the abortion stance. While Steele said that he was “pro-life,” is that really the case? Then again, one can be pro-life but can support pro-choice.
But there could be political backlash to come out of it. Democratic Governor Ed Rendell of Pennsylvania weighed in. According to Rendell, Steele’s future as RNC chairman could come to an end.
“He’s in trouble because I just think that those who control the Republican Party don’t want a big tent,” Rendell explained at a lunch by Christian Science Monitor. He would also cite Steele’s stance during the GQ magazine interview.
The transcript of the interview is available on the Washington Post’s website. So far, many conservative Republicans are concerned with Steele. However, GOP strategist Ed Rollins says that it is a known fact that Steele is pro-life. Overall, Steele’s remarks on abortion could cause a bit more tension within the GOP.
So far, Steele’s start is considered to be turbulent. But, the skies still look bright for Steele. According to state GOP leaders, they are still willing to stand behind Steele.