The GOP faces its first crucial post-Obama test Tuesday in New York's 20th Congressional District, with Democrat Scott Murphy running against Republican Jim Tedisco in a special election to replace Kirsten Gillibrand (appointed to take Hillary Clinton's Senate seat). Mr. Steele has publicly staked a lot on this contest, which polls have shown tightening in recent weeks. If Mr. Tedisco loses in this historically Republican district, with all the money the RNC has thrown behind him, it will be a devastating blow to the party and to Mr. Steele's shaky position therein.
Mr. Steele's tenure has not been without its bright spots. His fiscal stewardship is thus far promising - $5.1 million raised in February, with $24 million cash on hand and (unlike its Democratic counterpart) zero debt. And Mr. Steele retains considerable charm as well as the necessary goal of making the Republican Party a "big tent."
But his recent behavior has put that goal in jeopardy. In many ways, he has become a mirror of the party he represents: once robust, now conflicted and unsure. If he is to steady the Republican ship and bring focus to its course, he must first do unto himself.
