Though Bob Novak broke news a few weeks ago that Republican National Committee chairman Mel Martinez would step down once a presidential nominee was evident, likely in January, Politico reports he will actually step down today, in order to spend more time on his duties as a senator.

The resignation comes just two days after the RNC's Presidential Trust Dinner raked in $5 million from about 700 attendees. Still, some in the GOP were displeased with Martinez's election as RNC chief. Cuban by birth, Martinez and immigration hard-liners do not see eye-to-eye, which caused friction during recent debates over the issue.

During his time as RNC chair, Martinez saw his disapproval rating in his home state rise to 41% in a September Strategic Vision poll, up from 35% in March. 44% approved of Martinez's performance in both polls.

RNC co-chair Mike Duncan will stay on at the committee.