RNC asks Steele to replace Mehlman

The Washington Times: "Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman, whose party just lost both chambers of Congress, will leave his position in January, and the post as party chief has been offered to Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele.

'It is true,' Mr. Mehlman told The Washington Times when asked about reports last night that he would resign. 'It's something I decided over the summer. No one told me I needed to. In fact, folks wanted me to stay.'

Mr. Mehlman said he 'told the White House over the summer it was my decision' to leave the RNC post, 'win, lose or draw.'

Also last night, Republican officials told The Times that Mr. Steele, who lost his bid for the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, has been sought out to succeed Mr. Mehlman as national party chairman. Those Republican officials said Mr. Steele had not made a decision whether to take the post, as of last night.

Other Republican Party officials said some Republican National Committee (RNC) members, including state party chairmen, have mounted a move to have Mr. Steele succeed Mr. Mehlman."