The National Republican Congressional Committee on Tuesday pushed back against Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele for expressing doubt that the House GOP can retake the majority in 2010.

Steele, the controversial head of the RNC, told Fox News’ Sean Hannity during a Monday interview that House Republicans are likely to make “nice pickups” this November but said he was doubtful they would regain control. Democrats won the House majority in 2006 and grew their margins in 2008.

“Not this year,” Steele said of a GOP takeover.