Steele compares himself to Caesar

Michael Steele compared his rejection by the Republican National Committee to serve as its chairman for a second term to the assassination of Julius Caesar.

Steele lost his bid for another two years at the helm to Wisconsin Republican Reince Priebus last Friday. He bowed out before the fifth round of balloting, after losing support in successive votes.

Priebus was initially an ally of Steele’s — he served as his general counsel — but subsequently decided to seek the chairmanship.

“I know exactly how Caesar felt,” Steele told FrumForum, a conservative website. “It is what it is.”

Caesar was assassinated on the floor of the Roman Senate in March 44 BC by a group of senators that included his close friend.

Steele continued, “I trust my friends. Well, I guess the adage is right. In Washington, you should get a dog. … We put a lot of resources in Wisconsin over the last two years … that’s what you do for [the] team.”

He added, “All I know is that what goes around does come around. That’s the nature of politics.”

He also addressed the Daily Show’s Sesame Street-style puppet that spoke in Steele’s recorded voice and one with “urban flavor.” Host Jon Stewart said he introduced the puppet after Steele abruptly canceled an appearance.

“Jon Stewart. I have not done his show, but I’d love to do his show at some point,” he said.