Michael Steele For RNC Chair Or HUD Secretary?

It could happen, as news reports state that Ken Mehlman will step down as head of the Republican National Committee. Maryland Lt. Gov. Steele - a black conservative Republican who recently lost a bid for the U.S. Senate to Rep. Ben Cardin - has been offered the job. However, apparently adviser Karl Rove would like to see Mr. Steele heading up the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

I say Mr. Steele should carefully weigh his options. Personally, I'd rather see him as head of the Republican National Committee. His skills may be better suited in articulating GOP ideals, and as a telegenic figure who can galvanize the party's base and raise funds for the party. I don't believe a black person has ever headed the RNC, and that could help widen black political diversity. Heading up HUD is like a black hole, as HUD is a pretty ineffective agency.