Steele: Nov. 4 is an opportunity for GOP

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. - Former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele said this year's presidential election represents an opportunity for Republicans nationwide to re-establish the party's brand and make it stronger.

"John McCain affords us that opportunity," said Steele, speaking to the California delegation to the Republican National Convention at a breakfast event. "We're family, we're community, we're Republicans."

Steele, the first African-American elected to statewide office in Maryland, said McCain was demonstrating a lifetime commitment to service with his admonition Sunday for convention attendees to focus time and energy, however possible, on helping those affected by Hurricane Gustav in the Gulf Coast.

"I think it speaks very well for the journey before us," Steele said.

He added that Sarah Palin, tabbed for the vice presidential slot with U.S. Sen. John McCain last week, was a boost to the ticket.

"I know Sarah Palin. McCain's a maverick, and she's a barracuda," Steele said. "Joe Biden doesn't know what he's in for."

Steele acknowledged that Republican fortunes nationally have been rough in recent years, which suggests a need to re-emphasize a party message of empowerment, opportunity and ownership, he said.

"Let's show that we do give a damn about people in harm's way," Steele said. "That we care enough for the small business owner struggling to make it."

"That we care enough to fight for what we believe in."

Steele, elected lieutenant governor in 2002, lost a U.S. Senate race in Maryland to U.S. Rep. Ben Cardin (D-Baltimore) in 2006.