Republican National Committee Chair Michael Steele just did a phone interview with CNN, reacting to Arlen Specter switching parties. Among his comments . . .
“Specter had very few options at this point. He stepped on toes of quite a few Republicans with his vote on the stimulus, which was a core principle for us . . .
“I think he saw a tough primary challenge coming ahead and a tough general election as well. This is about political survival, and moving a little bit closer to where he’s ideologically planted . . .
“It has a big impact on the Republican party. It moves the Democrats one step closer to the 60 votes, which is a major problem not just only for the party, but for the country. He’s moving the country in a more collectivist, socialist direction . . . If that helps you recognize that you’re a Democrat, good riddance.
“You can tweak my nose, you can pull at my hair, but sooner or later enough is going to be enough, and I think a lot of Pennsylvania Republicans had had enough.”
Steele says he didn’t get a heads-up about the decision.
Steele’s closing message: “Get ready, baby, we’re coming after ya and we’re getting ready to take you out.”