GOP chairman says he has no thoughts of resigning

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Republican Party's national chairman says he's had no thoughts of resigning despite criticism of his first-year performance and controversy about his recent book that takes shots at the GOP.

Michael Steele is apologizing for not alerting Republicans in advance about the book's release. In the book, he accuses GOP leaders of abandoning conservative principles over the past decade.

Steele also is defending his record as party chairman, saying he's "pushing the ball" for the GOP and helping the party win elections and raise money.

There have been recent reports that GOP leaders are unhappy with Steele. In response, Steele has said they either should fire him or "shut up."

Steele appeared on "Fox News Sunday."