Michael Steele Drops Out of RNC Race

Michael Steele finally conceded what everyone else pretty much knew: He won't get another term as chairman of the Republican National Committee. Steele dropped out of the race today after trailing badly in the first four rounds of voting, reports Politico. Those remaining are front-runner Reince Priebus (the GOP chairman in Wisconsin), Ann Wagner, Maria Cino, and Saul Anuzis. All are jockeying for the magic number of 85 votes, and Steele is now backing Cino. (Update: Priebus wins.)

"At this time, I will step aside for others to lead," said Steele. "But in so doing, I hope you all appreciate the legacy we leave. Despite the noise, despite the difficulties, we won.” Cino is a veteran GOP operative and current Pfizer lobbyist who is close to House Speaker John Boehner, notes Politico. It's possible Steele struck a deal to land a K Street job by throwing his support to her.
(More Michael Steele stories.)