Gingrich Goes on the Offensive at Exciting Idlewild Baptist Church

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich joined an ever-growing list of political hopefuls who have paid a visit to Exciting Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz for Sunday morning worship.

Following today’s service, however, Gingrich came out swinging.

According to the Politico, Gingrich went on the offensive against former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, saying “the Republican party will not nominate a pro-abortion, pro-gun control, pro-tax increase moderate from Massachusetts.”

Idlewild is a favorite stop for politicians who want to reach a large audience of people. welcomes candidates from both sides of the aisle, but doesn’t allow them to address congregants during services, according to Senior Pastor Ken Whitten.

Once candidates step outside, however, all bets are off, as evidenced by Gingrich’s address to media today outside Idlewild.

“This is going to be a straight out contest for the next four or five months," the Politico quoted Gingrich as saying. "I have had a long record as a very hard-hitting Reagan conservative.”

Today’s visit to the church was largely unannounced by the campaign, but is par for the course for Idlewild. made a stop at the church in August.

The Florida Presidential Preference Primary gets under way Tuesday, Jan. 31, when polls open in Tampa Bay area counties at 7 a.m. Candidates in the race have been making appearances throughout the region this weekend with more anticipated through election day.