MAKEOVER

Republicans Plot to Ditch Steele

RNC leader could face opposition.

Despite their huge gain in seats for both houses of Congress, some key Republicans are angling to get rid of Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele, and encouraging challengers to step up and run against Steele. Turning their attention to the 2012 race, Republicans are trying to up their fundraising efforts and get-out-the-vote initiatives—two things that helped get President Barack Obama elected in 2008. Sources close to the expected new House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) and Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said both men would like to see someone other than Steele as chairman, but they would reluctantly support Steele if no other candidate comes forward. Henry Barbour, nephew of former RNC chairman and current Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, is leading the fight against Steele, and has already begun approaching possible challengers.