A terrific post from RedState.com -- a report from a Newt event in South Carolina

Dmitriy Shaprio writes:

It is not hard to understand why Gingrich is attractive to GOP voters. His conservative record extends decades before the political emergence of the others. He is seen as a hero within the GOP for engineering the “Contract with America” in 1994, giving Republicans their first majority in Congress in forty years. Gingrich’s brain was once described as a “National Treasure,” complimenting his immense intelligence, that judging from this event, is even more impressive in person. Fortunately, his importance was not lost on the attendees; most members of the Columbia Tea Party were above middle age or retirees.

Gingrich’s speech or answers to audience questions was not a compilation of talking points. He didn’t talk down to the voters as other candidates often do, and the audience thanked him with their numerous standing ovations. Gingrich also did not attempt to play to the desires of the crowd, remaining authentic throughout. When asked by an audience member whether he would support the “fair” tax – a popular issue among Tea Party voters – Gingrich politely responded with a “no,” and went into a detailed explanation why not, and his own solution. Yet, this did not affect his support from the audience.

The Tea Party seems to be split on their choice of candidates, but Gingrich is still a contender. On September 26th, Tea Party Nationfounder, Judson Phillips, announced his endorsement for Gingrich, citing electability, conservatism, overall vision, and skill displayed in debates as key motivators.

Shapiro continues:

He revealed to attendees at the next day’s breakfast meet and greet, that he wanted to put together a youth movement for his campaign. His idea focused on getting college and high school organizers talking to their peers about the future of Social Security. For those wondering what careers the future holds for them, as most students are, retirement is not an issue that motivates them into action. Rachel Keane, 17, of Stanley, North Carolina, who will only be old enough to vote in the general election, yet is still remarkably involved politically, remarked “I think Social Security must be an important issue. I am tired of people complaining about it, but not telling me why.” Through my discussion with her and her father, Whit Keane, an entrepreneur, this is not a small matter, as her knowledge of political issues far exceeds many twice her age. Despite this, both expressed that Gingrich’s platform resonates well with them, and that it would be a shame if Republicans overlook such an important political thinker, with such a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Here is the link to the post, and for those who have not seen it, here is a video of Judson Phillips explaining why he endorsed Newt:

(Video) Judson Phillips explains why he endorsed Newt 2012

Link.

Tea Party Nation Founder endorses Newt for President

Judson Phillips, who started Tea Party Nation, today announced he is endorsing Newt for President in 2012. Here is the full story on Newt.org. Please read the full story, but here is a snippet:

Gingrich is the candidate who has the vision to fundamentally change the Federal Government. Gingrich has the unique capabilities to be the field general. He is the big idea man, much as Ronald Reagan was.

Gingrich against Obama is a great contrast. He has a track record of accomplishments and has worked at the national level. Gingrich can rightfully claim credit for everything from welfare reform to balancing the budget. Obama can offer nothing against him...

Newt Gingrich is the right candidate to not only help us take this country back from socialism, but roll socialism back.

I am thrilled to endorse Newt Gingrich to be the Republican nominee and the next President of the United States.

Newt's campaign notes the following facts as well:

-- Since the origins of the movement in February 2009, Newt has met with tea party leaders in 41 cities, from California to Connecticut.

-- He has spoken personally with approximately 3,000 tea party activists.

-- He also spoke at the first ever Tax Day Tea Party Rally in New York City to a crowd of 13,000 people.

-- As part of the Newt 2012 campaign, Newt launched Team Ten -- a grassroots online tool on Facebook to assemble ideas from Tea Party activists throughout the country on how to return power back to the states and the people, as the Tenth Amendment instructs.

Newt.org also brought up that this news is on the heels of the Columbia, South Carolina, Tea Party leader endorsing Newt.

Improving poll numbers, improving fundraising numbers, higher numbers of volunteers, and two important Tea Party endorsements. All adds up to momentum.