Steele Lashes Out At Critics: Fire Me Or Shut Up

[babylonsister]

http://tpmlivewire.talkingpointsmemo.com/2010/01/steele-lashes-out-at-critics-fire-me-or-shut-up.php?ref=fpb

Steele Lashes Out At Critics: Fire Me Or Shut Up
Rachel Slajda | January 7, 2010, 11:17AM


RNC Chairman Michael Steele struck back today at Republican critics, saying they can either fire him or "shut up" in an interview with ABC News Radio.

"I tell them to get a life. That's old Washington, that's old ways, and I don't represent that, and that kills them," Steele said. "I'm telling them and I'm looking them in the eye and say I've had enough of it. If you don't want me in the job, fire me. But until then, shut up. Get with the program or get out of the way."

"All I'm saying is cut it out. If we have party differences that are inside the party, let's deal with them inside the party. You don't see the Democrats running around trying to beat up their national chairman or embarrass him," he added.

Steele has reportedly drawn ire from Republican leaders -- and big donors -- for various comments over the first year of his term as chairman. Most recently, he told Sean Hannity that he didn't think Republicans would take back the House this year. He also questioned whether the GOP would be ready to lead if they did win a majority.

He also took a hit at former party chairmen who criticized him for taking large speaking and appearance fees.

"Some of my prior chairmen who are running their mouths right now -- how many farm teams did you build as chairman?" he said.

[HopeHoops]

1. NNNOOOOOO!!! We NEED Steele. Every time he opens his mouth, the GOP looks dumber!

God help us if Sarah Palin shuts up!

[EOTE]

2. God I love Michael Steele.

If I was a republican, I'd be kept awake at night thinking of ways to deal with him. He's one of the most ineffective chairmen ever and this is how he reacts to criticism? With a dare? And what's hilarious is that although I'm sure many want to get rid of him, they're probably fearful of being labeled racist if they can him. I guess that's what happens when you pick a chairman simply so you can say "me too" after the opposition party elects the first African American President. I hope Shock G has a very long tenure as Chairman.

[spanone]

3. don't fire steele, he's the gift that keeps on giving.

[Zoeisright]

4. How about you get fired AND YOU shut up, Steele?

Win-win situation.

[gratuitous]

5. QUIET EVERYBODY!

Let's see how the Republicans handle their freedom, shall we? Will they all "shut up" because Steele told them to? Or will they retreat to that quaint old document the Constitution and claim that they have the freedom to speak? As the old adage goes, never interrupt your opponent when he's making a mistake.

Little church mouses are we.

[lpbk2713]

6. Steele actually thinks he's the head of the GOP ... ROFLMAO.

While everyone else knows Limbaugh is the head of the GOP.

Talk about delusional wingnuts!

[Orsino]

8. He's a lousy salesman for a worse product. n/t

[Orsino]

7. Steele folds under pressure.

Typical Republican "leader."

[denem]

9. 1. Fired; 2. Civil Rights action; 3. Tell all Book

4. Comedy commentator in 2010