Newt Gingrich Makes Several Maryland Stops
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ)—Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich campaigned in Maryland Tuesday. Gingrich began his day in Annapolis and ended in Salisbury.
Political reporter Pat Warren has more on the former Speaker's visit.
The former U.S. Speaker's campaign swing through Maryland brought him to the Statehouse where he took a bow on the floor of the state Senate, before taking a shot at the governor's gas tax.
"There's talk here about an increase in the gas tax for Maryland, which I think shows as much political insensitivity as you could imagine. Given everybody's concern about the price of gasoline to have an effort made to raise the price by as much as 25 cents a gallon strikes me as being very, very anti everyday working American," Gingrich said.
Then leaving his own car parked, Gingrich and his entourage strolled along Main Street for a visit to Del. Ron George's jewelry shop.
"He's got a great mind, a sharp mind. He's a history buff. We had a lot of history to talk about here," George said.
And then on to Chick and Ruth's Delly for lunch. It's a landmark gathering spot for politicians for decades.
"All candidates are welcome," said Beth Levitt, Chick & Ruth's Delly. "We had John McCain in here a couple years ago and we have Newt Gingrich and whoever would like to come in here. We take them all."
The visit attracted John Hartnett, who says this Republican primary has been the best he's seen.
"Well I think it's damn healthy," said Hartnett. "I think this debate is... I'm 76, and this debate seems to be going on forever, but I like that. I think that's important."
And Gingrich gave his reason for Marylanders to support whomever is the Republican nominee.
"Say two words. Barack Obama. Any Republican, any independent, any conservative who stays home is helping re-elect Barack Obama," Gingrich said.
After Annapolis, Gingrich was off to Salisbury.
Texas Congressman Ron Paul campaigns at the University of Maryland College Park on Wednesday night. Maryland will send 37 delegates to the Republican National Convention.
Early voting is underway in Maryland from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from now through Thursday. The primary is a week from Tuesday.
