Steele appoints ally to top RNC job

Michael Steele appointed a key ally to the position of Republican National Committee general counsel.

Steele announced Friday he's asked Idaho Republican Party Chairman Norman Semanko to serve in the prestigious job.

"His exceptional qualifications will ensure the committee's sound legal footing and make sure that the resources are in place to continue to build on this year's historic elections," Steele, the RNC chairman, said in a statement.

Semanko, whose appointment to the volunteer position is subject to confirmation by the RNC, was one of 31 state GOP chairmen who backed Steele in the wake of a spending scandal last spring.

Steele has not yet announced whether he will seek a second term as RNC chairman.