Herman Cain Endorses Newt Gingrich

Former Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain has announced his endorsement of Newt Gingrich.

Cain joined Gingrich at the Palm Beach County Republican Party's 2012 Lincoln Day Dinner Saturday night, where the former Speaker delivered the event's keynote speech. Todd Starnes of Fox News Radio tweeted that Cain was greeted to huge cheers when he walked on stage with Gingrich.

"I herby officially and enthusiastically endorse Newt Gingrich for President of the United States," NBC News campaign embed reporter Alexandra Moe quoted Cain saying.

The Georgia businessman's announcement is the second endorsement from a former Presidential candidate for Gingrich. Texas Governor Rick Perry announced his support for the former Speaker several days before the South Carolina Republican primary.

Cain made it official via Twitter at about 9:20 p.m.

The former pizza executive is a favorite of the tea party, and left the race before the first nominating contests as he faced accusations of unwanted sexual advances and an extramarital affair. The Associated Press notes that Cain remains popular, and would provide a late boost for Gingrich before Tuesday's Florida Republican primary.

CNN reports that Cain cited the former House Speaker's "bold ideas" as the basis for his choice, saying Gingrich wasn't afraid to propose big ideas that would benefit the nation.

"There are many reasons, but one of the biggest reasons is that I know that Speaker Gingrich is a patriot," Cain said. "Speaker Gingrich is not afraid of bold ideas and I also know that Speaker Gingrich is running for president and going through this sausage grinder. I know what this sausage grinder is all about. I know that he is going through this sausage grinder because he cares about the future of the United States of America."

POLITICO reports that Gingrich thanked Cain and said he’d be a part of a commission on “jobs, economic growth and taxes” should Gingrich become president. The former Speaker promised that Cain’s 9-9-9 tax plan would be part of the national conversation. POLITICO also notes that Cain will return to WSB Radio, where he hosted a radio show for five years before leaving to run for president. Cain, according to the network, will provide commentary and political analysis weekdays, and appear as a guest on conservative Neil Boortz’s show.

Video of Cain's remarks Saturday night: