It's Official: Newt Is In

As we reported on Monday, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich has confirmed that he is a candidate for President of the United States. His team spread early word of the (now unsurprising) decision on social media sites, and Gingrich will appear on Sean Hannity's Fox News program at 9pm ET tonight to discuss his formal declaration. As of this writing, his campaign website, www.newt.org, is crashed.

Newt's online announcement video -- now a regular feature of 21st century political campaigns -- is very straightforward. It features the candidate talking directly into the camera, with a black background and some light music. Newt runs through his accomplishments, advances a sunny vision of America's future, and asks for viewers' support:

Gingrich is the first "top tier" candidate to officially enter the race. (Gary Johnson has also done so). Welcome to the 2012 presidential cycle, America.