Michael Steele Drops Out, Endorses Maria Cino

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3:56 PM, Jan 14, 2011 • By JOHN MCCORMACK

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An emotional Michael Steele just took the stage at the RNC meeting to announce that he's dropping out of the race.

Michael Steele Drops Out, Endorses Maria Cino

"I release my supporters and I ask them to stand with me in supporting Maria Cino," Steele said.

Steele said it became apparent to him that the party wants to go in a different direction, but he defended his record. "Despite the noise" and "despite the difficulties, we won." He received two standing ovations--one after saying that line, and another after finishing his speech. "And now, I exit stage right," Steele concluded, before leaving the podium.