They’re probably wringing their hands hoping they can keep Steele from filing a discrimination suit. They should have gone with Ken Blackwell (also Black but a true conservative and smart).
I think the fact they didn’t go with Blackwell indicates the RNC is more RINO friendly.
Also, one big problem, IMO, is the R’s wading too far into the religious grass. Constitutional types/fiscal conservatives don’t necessarily back a social conservative agenda. Candidates can be socially conservative in their private life, but it’s all about the Constitution, IMHO.