Cain and Gingrich before a Republican debate in November

THE TICKET

Businessman and former Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain endorsed Newt Gingrich for president Saturday at a dinner in West Palm Beach, Florida, calling it a "surprise occasion."

"I hereby officially and enthusiastically endorse Newt Gingrich for president of the United States!" Cain said. "One of the biggest reasons is the fact that I know that Speaker Gingrich is a patriot, Speaker Gingrich is not afraid of bold ideas and I also know that Speaker Gingrich is running for president and going through this sausage grinder. I know what this sausage grinder is all about."

According to The Ticket, Cain, who dropped his bid for the White House in December, had formerly said he would not make an endorsement. Instead, he opted to endorse "the people" instead.