Herman Cain Gets Warm Welcome In New Hampshire
CONCORD, N.H. - Herman Cain, the pizza company CEO turned presidential candidate is the hottest thing in the Republican Party right now.
He says he's going to step up his activity in New Hampshire and Iowa to keep his momentum going.
"The American people have an appetite for someone who is not afraid to put bold fresh ideas on the table," he said Wednesday.
WBZ-TV's Lauren Leamanczyk reports
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Mark Katic reports
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Cain got a roaring reception from New Hampshire Lawmakers. But will that translate to votes? Cain is polling a surging second behind Mitt Romney in New Hampshire. He told reporters he doesn't know if he can catch up, but he can close the gap. He asked lawmakers to help him do that.
"I know a lot of you support Mitt Romney. Those of you who do not support him, I'm asking for your support. For those of you that do support him, I'm asking you to reconsider," he said to a chamber full of laughter and applause.
Cain stopped by the 99 Restaurant in Concord.
WBZ asked Cain, "Why should people pick you over Mr. Romney. You're both businessmen." Cain answered, "We're both businessmen and I respect the years he spent on Wall Street. He's a Wall Street executive. I'm a Main Street executive. I've run places like this."
Cain isn't a familiar face in New Hampshire. He hasn't done many campaign stops and he only has two staffers here. But Cain says that is about to change.
"A lot of people feel like they haven't seen you. They don't know you. What will you do to change that?" WBZ asked. "Spend more time here," he answered.
Cain got a kick out of the $9.99 special on the menu. But his own 9-9-9 tax plan is drew lots of criticism at Tuesday night's debate. He says voters will get it, even though it contains a federal sales tax. And while some dismiss him as just the latest GOP hopeful to get a boost, Cain insists he's here to stay.
"Flavor of the week? No there's a difference between the flavor of the week and Haagen Dazs Black Walnut. It tastes good all the time. You can call me Black Walnut," Cain responds.
