Michael Steele built a high-profile public career spanning his tenure as the lieutenant governor of Maryland, his service as the first African American chair of the Republican National Committee, and his ongoing role as an MSNBC political analyst. Yet away from television studio lights and campaign headquarters, public interest often focuses on his personal life, his marriage to Andrea Derritt Steele, and his path away from the political arena.
Confusion sometimes surrounds his family details due to online inaccuracies—such as misidentifying his spouse as academic Janet Steele—but Michael Steele has been married to Andrea Derritt Steele since 1985. Together, they raised two sons, Michael II and Drew, while balancing high-demand corporate and public service careers in the Washington, D.C. area.
Early Background and Upbringing
Born in October 1958 at Andrews Air Force Base in Prince George's County, Maryland, Michael Steele was adopted as an infant by William and Maebell Steele. His adoptive father passed away in 1962 when Steele was just four years old, leaving his mother to raise him and his sister in Washington, D.C.
His mother's work ethic and strong community involvement deeply shaped his personal values. Raised in a Catholic household, Steele attended Johns Hopkins University, where he graduated with a degree in international relations in 1981. Before turning toward law and politics, he spent time studying for the priesthood in the Order of St. Augustine, an experience that reinforced a lifelong commitment to his faith and community service. He later earned his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center in 1991. To read more about the history here, Associated Press provides an in-depth breakdown.
Marriage to Andrea Derritt Steele
Michael Steele married Andrea Derritt in 1985. Andrea Derritt Steele earned her M.B.A. from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. Following her business studies, she worked in corporate banking, eventually rising to the position of vice president at Riggs Bank in Washington, D.C.
As their family grew with the births of their sons, Michael II and Drew, Andrea stepped back from her banking career to focus on raising their children. Throughout Michael's grueling political campaigns—including his historic run for lieutenant governor of Maryland and his tenure heading the RNC—Andrea largely maintained a private profile, supporting the family behind the scenes while avoiding the day-to-day partisan spotlight.
Family Life and Community Roots
The Steeles have long maintained deep ties to the Washington, D.C., and Maryland suburbs. They are active parishioners at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Landover Hills, Maryland, where they have participated in local community and church activities for decades.
Despite the intense scrutiny that accompanies national political commentary, the couple shielded their sons from heavy media exposure during their upbringing. Both Michael II and Drew grew up attending local schools before pursuing their own adult careers outside of elected office.
Correcting Online Misconceptions
A frequent error in digital biographies involves confusing Michael Steele's spouse with Dr. Janet Steele, a professor of Media and Public Affairs at George Washington University. While both individuals occupy spaces within the broader Washington academic and media ecosystem, Janet Steele is an independent scholar who specializes in journalism history and Southeast Asian media. Michael Steele's actual spouse remains Andrea Derritt Steele, with whom he has shared his personal life for nearly four decades.
Professional Evolution and Current Focus
Transitioning out of direct partisan politics following his term as RNC chair, Steele expanded his footprint as a prominent media figure. He established himself as an independent political voice, hosting media projects like The Michael Steele Podcast and co-hosting radio shows on SiriusXM, alongside his work as an MSNBC political analyst. He also served as a senior fellow at Brown University's Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs.
This shift allowed him to balance public commentary with a quieter domestic life. Rather than managing the 24-hour crisis communication cycle of national party leadership, his current routine combines broadcast obligations with academic engagement and family milestones in the mid-Atlantic region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Michael Steele married to?
Michael Steele is married to Andrea Derritt Steele, a former corporate banking executive who earned her M.B.A. from the Wharton School of Business. They married in 1985.
How many children do Michael and Andrea Steele have?
They have two adult sons, Michael II and Drew, who were raised in the Washington, D.C. and Maryland area.
Is Janet Steele related to Michael Steele?
No. Janet Steele is a professor at George Washington University and an author specializing in journalism. She is not married to Michael Steele, though automated online profiles occasionally conflate the names.
Where does Michael Steele live?
Michael Steele lives in the Maryland suburbs near Washington, D.C., where he and his family have maintained their primary residence and local church community for decades.
