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Norm Coleman Says He Won't Pursue RNC Chairmanship

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Former U.S. Sen. Norm Coleman says he won't pursue the chairmanship of the Republican National Committee as long as Michael Steele wants to keep the job.

Coleman told the St. Paul Pioneer Press on Friday that part of his decision is based on respect for Steele, despite all the criticism directed against him from within the party.

Coleman, who has been mentioned as a potential replacement, tells the newspaper he doesn't think Steele has gotten enough credit for the work he's done bringing the tea party movement and the GOP together.

Asked if he'd seek the RNC chairmanship if Steele declines to run again, Coleman said he wouldn't speculate.

Coleman is back in St. Paul for the holidays. He's now CEO of the center-right policy and advocacy group American Action Network, based in Washington.

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Information from: St. Paul Pioneer Press

(© Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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