U.S. Senate candidate Michael Steele of Maryland isn't about to let the Baltimore Sun distort where he stands on the issues. That's why Steele says he's turning down the Sun's request to respond to a candidate survey, instead sharing his answers directly with the public.

The Maryland lieutenant governor cites as his rationale the Sun's racist characterization of him as bringing "little to the team but the color of [my] skin" when he ran for the job in 2002.

Good for Steele. Standing up to the liberal editors at the Sun is a courageous move on Steele's part. Little by little, the old guard at places like the Sun is losing its influence while more voters turn to blogs and other outlets for the information they desire.

(Steele, by the way, is one of a select number of candidates endorsed by the Rightroots coalition of conservative bloggers. Click here to donate.)

Dear Supporter:

Recently, the Baltimore Sun's Editorial Page asked me to complete a ten question survey on issues affecting Maryland.

After careful consideration, I have decided not to submit to the Baltimore Sun my responses to its candidate survey.

I believe the public deserves to know exactly where I stand on issues affecting Maryland. That's why I have decided to share my responses directly with you - to view my responses in their entirety - unfiltered and without bias.

Additionally, I have posted the complete survey on my website so all may learn my views on these important issues. Please view my responses here.

In 2002, The Sun editorial board concluded that I brought 'little to the team but the color of [my] skin.' And although I have spent my years as Lieutenant Governor chairing the Commission on Quality Education, reforming the state's Minority Business Enterprise program, and promoting policies to reduce crime and protect our environment, their attitude toward me and my campaign has progressed little.

I am hopeful that the hiring of a new publisher may help shift The Sun toward listening to the views of all Marylanders. I also encourage the new publisher to increase diversity among the paper's editors and management staff because they are at the heart of what perpetuates these paternalistic and stereotypical attitudes toward certain politicians and leaders from a certain part of the community.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication. I look forward to working side by side with you as we work to secure our victory in November!

Sincerely,

Michael S. Steele

P.S. Remember, you can learn exactly where I stand on issues affecting Maryland by visiting my website today.