(FeaturedNews.com) – Newt Gingrich’s political resume is as impressive as that of just about anyone in Washington, DC. However, he will be remembered as much for his colorful personality as his service in leadership.
Gingrich has been an important figure in American conservative politics for over four decades. First elected to the House of Representatives in 1979, the Georgia lawmaker served as both Republican Whip and Speaker of the House. He went on to run for the Republican presidential nomination in 2012, losing out to Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT).
Early Career
After serving as a professor of history at West Georgia College, Gingrich first won elected office in 1978, claiming one of Georgia’s seats in the US House of Representatives. During his campaign and the early years of his tenure, he was highly critical of the Republican leaders of the day, including figures like Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, and Bill Brock.
Gingrich went on to win election to the House a total of 11 times. He served as Republican Whip from 1989 to 1995, and became Speaker of the House in 1995.
Speaker of the House
Gingrich was picked as House Speaker after an election that saw Republicans become the dominant party in the chamber for the first time in 40 years. One of Gingrich’s most notable contributions as Speaker was his spearheading of the “Contract With America,” a sweeping legislative change that promoted smaller government, limited taxes, and helped businesses.
After facing criticism from his party colleagues over a number of issues, Gingrich resigned the Speakership and left Congress at the end of 1999.
Run for President
Gingrich wrote over a dozen books over the following decade, but he wasn’t ready to give up on public life just yet. He made a bid for the GOP presidential nomination in 2012, eventually dropping out and endorsing Mitt Romney.
Now 77, Gingrich doesn’t appear to hold any aspiration to return to public office. He remains active by writing books (the most recent of which was released in 2020) and releasing content on his website.
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