UPDATE: Gingrich endorses Deal for governor

ATLANTA – For the second time in two days, a prominent Republican has endorsed a candidate for Georgia’s next governor.

Newt Gingrich, former speaker of the House, on Tuesday endorsed former U.S. Rep. Nathan Deal. On Monday, former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin endorsed Karen Handel.

“Nathan’s an old friend, and I’ve endorsed him,” WSB-AM quoted Gingrich as saying. “I think he’d be a good governor. He’s a very solid practical conservative. He knows a lot about how to govern.”

Seven Republicans are vying for the nomination. A recent 11 Alive/V 103-FM poll showed Deal in a third-place tie with Eric Johnson. Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John Oxendine was leading the pack, according to the poll.