Former Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele will give a major address to the Republican National Convention on the second night of the GOP gathering.  Steele, touted here a couple of months ago for his conservative credentials and integrity, will speak on the same night as such Republican luminaries as Rudy Giuliani,  Mike Huckabee and Fred Thompson.

During my years in Maryland, there have been very, VERY few political bright spots.  Linda Chavez, former Governor Bob Ehrlich and former Baltimore Mayor/Governor/Comptroller William Donald Schaefer (though a Democrat) are among them.  But at the top of the list is Michael Steele.

As I wrote in June:

This guy is the real deal and should have been named chairman of the RNC two years ago. He should have a position of prominence during the convention and in the campaign, not just as a black counter to Barack Obama (Steele would win, not just on policies, but he’s 6′4″ and his ears are proportional to his head), but intellectually and charismatically, Steele can deliver the message that the Republicans can and will deliver to every corner of the American landscape and to every citizen.

Put Ronald Reagan’s vision and policies in Michael Steele’s hands, and watch the meter jump.

Michael Steele is, rightly, being elevated to the national spotlight and I take credit for his invitation to the podium.  There were quite a few hits on my post in June, including a bunch from the RNC.

It is, however, possible, that Steele’s credentials, presence, intellect, demeanor, personality, character and values were also considered.