NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions (R-Texas) released the following statement today thanking RNC Chairman Michael Steele for his contribution to the special election race in New York's vacant 20th District. Steele has come under fire lately for his performance as the newly-minted leader of the Republican National Committee.

Sessions:

"Each of us in House Republican leadership appreciate Chairman Steele's early contribution to our effort to fight our way back to the majority. But even more than this generous donation, we appreciate his total commitment to winning the special election in New York's 20th Congressional District. He is deeply committed to rebuilding the Party in blue states, and he's putting action behind his words. Not only has Chairman Steele personally been on the ground in New York twice, his staff is fully engaged and helping to make sure we have a superior grassroots turnout operation. Having worked with Michael before, I look forward to partnering with him again as we work to expand our party."