Michigan man to head the Republican Party? Saul Anuzis, who spent four years as chair of the Michigan GOP, is challenging Michael Steele for the job of Republican National Committee chairman. Anuzis ran for the job two years ago, but pulled out after five ballots. Steele, who hasn't said whether he will run again, was seen as a laughingstock for much of his tenure. He was always rumored to be on the brink of being fired, but he may have gotten a new lease on life after the Republican landslide victories this fall.

Anuzis, on the other hand, may be at a disadvantage because he presided over a period when the Michigan GOP lost two elections, big time. But don't let that fool you: Democrats should quietly be hoping that he doesn't get the top national job.

That's because Anuzis has formidable skills. He is tech-savvy, a whiz at raising money, and excellent with the press, though he isn't interested in making himself the story or in running for office. A Harley-riding son of Lithuanian immigrants, he grew up in a blue-collar Detroit family. He can relate to constituents many Republicans can't. The national party would be smart to hire him. My guess is they won't be.

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