Man of Steele

Commentary
By Cal Thomas

What would you call a man born into poverty who became a success despite many obstacles? You would probably call him an inspiration and invite him to speak at your next business convention.

Suppose that man from humble roots is African-American? He might be a keynote speaker at the next NAACP gathering, or the 2008 Democratic National Convention.

Except that this man is not a Democrat. He's a Republican and a conservative. What would you call him now -- an "Oreo," an "Uncle Tom," a "token"?

Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele, who is running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Paul S. Sarbanes, has been called these names, and worse, by Democratic leaders in his state.

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