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.
