“Duke” Cunningham Backs Newt for Pres: Report

Cunningham is serving an eight-year prison sentence for accepting $2.4 million in bribes from defense contractors

If you believe the buzz, it looks like GOP presidential candidate Newt Gingrich has an ally in the dishonorable ex-Congressman from California.

Once an active member of the GOP, Randy "Duke" Cunningham is currently behind bars serving an eight-year prison sentence for accepting $2.4 million in bribes from defense contractors.

On Thursday, our media partner the voiceofsandiego published a letter they received from Cunningham that reads like an open letter to Gingrich himself.

"I do not want anything from you but have been watching the debates," the letter states. "I have 80% of inmates that would vote for you."

The writer goes on to say "Mit" just does not have the experience and that Congress needs to work with someone who "has been at the top of the spear like you."
 
The author also offers to help out if Gingrich should move in to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, "When you are president I could help you with prison and justice reform if wanted."
 
While it may have fallen short on any type of endorsement, the letter has definitely made its rounds. Appearing on news websites from The Washington Post to Gawker.
 
VoiceofSanDiego staffers report the letter to Gingrich was sent to them by Cunningham as part of an ongoing communication with Cunningham about former aide Nathan Fletcher who is now running for San Diego Mayor.
 
Military contractor Mitchell Wade gave Cunningham more than $1 million in kickbacks, a yacht dubbed "The Duke-stir" and other gifts in exchange for about $150 million in government contracts.

Let us know what you think. Comment below, send us your thoughts via Twitter @nbcsandiego or add your comment to our Facebook page.

Contact Us