Newt Gingrich Commits to Florida

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (TSK) -- In a stunning move that could shake up both the Republican presidential race and National Signing Day, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich said Monday he had committed to the University of Florida.

"I found Will Muschamp to be a very even-tempered gentleman," Gingrich said. "Besides, when I found out that Florida State is dedicated to bureaucratic socialism and the radical teachings of Saul Alinsky, it was over."

Asked if he was concerned about the ability of Florida to rebound from a mediocre season to play for national championships, Gingrich said: "National championships are a waste of time. I'm focused on galactic championships. I mean, if we're going to be great, we have to be the best team in the solar system."

Rivals lists Gingrich as a four-start prospect at center, left guard and right guard. "Not each of them -- we really think he can play all three at the same time," said Mike Farrell of Rivals.

Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney originally committed to the University of South Florida, but then withdrew his commitment, saying his state's Democratic legislature had forced him to agree to attend the Tampa-based school.

Texas Congressman Ron Paul has not committed to a school yet, saying that he is waiting to find a team that will operate on the gold standard for all four years.

Rick Santorum has already committed to the debate team at the University of Central Florida, saying their sweater vests are "super neat."