Former GOP presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich officially suspended his campaign Wednesday. During a speech today he detailed his exit plans, but did not formally endorse Mitt Romney. A formal endorsement event will come later this month.
Newt Gingrich reminisced about his political career, from first coming to the house, to the "Contract With America," and on through his most recent Presidential campaign. He spoke about working with President Clinton to pass balanced budgets during his time as House Speaker.
"Over my lifetime, I've tried to move the national debate," he said, citing his books and documentaries.
He laid out his plans for the future, including continuing to work on religious freedom and energy independence. He said he would also like to work with college students on social security savings accounts and on developing a health care system for the future. He said he'd like to start a national conversation about how to get Congress to work effectively.
The former House speaker told reporters and supporters that he and his wife, Callista, would campaign for Republican candidates on every level, including Mitt Romney for President.
In a video message to supporters Tuesday, the former House speaker indicated that he was ready to do all he could to defeat President Obama in the November elections.
Gingrich signaled that he would suspend his campaign after losing five Northeast primaries to Mitt Romney on April 24. His campaign also reported that it was $4.3 million in debt, as of March 31.
In May 2011, he announced his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination.