In other political news, Republican officials have elected former Maryland lieutenant governor Michael Steele to be the party’s next chair. Steele becomes the first African American to chair the Republican Party. During his victory speech, Steele said the Republican Party has an image problem and has been misidentified as a party unconcerned about minorities.

Michael Steele: “We’re going to bring this party to every corner, every boardroom, every neighborhood, every community. And we’re going to say to friend and foe alike, we want you to be a part of us, we want you to work with us, and for those of you who wish to obstruct, get ready to get knocked over.”