Does Newt Gingrich have a real shot at the presidency?

The former Speaker of the House is on the brink of forming an exploratory committee to run for president. Can he overcome his baggage to nab the GOP nomination?

It's rumored that Republican Newt Gingrich will announce the formation of a presidential exploratory committee by March 8th.
(Image credit: Getty)

It looks like Newt Gingrich may indicate his plans for a presidential run within the next two weeks. By March 8, reports the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Georgia Republican will form a committee exploring a presidential run, a traditional first step. Can Newt win over GOP voters — and could he defeat President Obama in 2012? (Watch Gingrich answer questions about his personal life)

Don't underestimate Gingrich: "Newt has ideas," says Matt Lewis at Politics Daily, and can communicate them effectively. He's a hard worker and has the "fire in the belly" a candidate needs to endure the "grueling" campaign schedule. Most importantly, "Gingrich also has a proven track record of success that no other Republican can come close to matching." So, although Gingrich comes with "baggage," his other qualities outweigh it.

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