Former Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain endorsed Newt Gingrich on Saturday night in an attempt to reignite Gingrich's flagging momentum in Florida ahead of Tuesday's primary vote.

"I hereby officially and enthusiastically endorse Newt Gingrich for president of the United States," Cain said, after appearing as a "surprise guest" at a Lincoln Day Dinner held by the Palm Beach County Republican Party .

"There are several reasons, many reasons, as to why I have reached this public decision. I had it in my heart and mind a long time ago," Cain said. "I know that Speaker Gingrich is a patriot, Speaker Gingrich is not afraid of bold ideas."

"And I also know that Speaker Gingrich is running for president, and going through this sausage grinder -- I know what this sausage grinder is all about," Cain said, because "he cares about the future of the United States of America. We all do."

"I am inspired, you are inspired, Speaker Gingrich is inspired, because it's not about us -- it's about the grandkids," Cain said.

Cain, the former CEO of Godfathers Pizza, effectively dropped out of the Republican primary in early December after being hounded by accusations from multiple women that he sexually harassed them.

Gingrich learned of Cain's intent to endorse him earlier in the day, a spokesman said.