Newt Gingrichs trip to Dawsonville on Monday marked the first time in history a presidential candidate visited Dawson County.

The Republican candidate for president of the United States spoke to a big crowd at the Lakeview Center during a luncheon campaign event. Gingrich chatted and posed for photos with the many who came to hear him discuss his 21st Century Contract with America, his detailed plan to get America back on track. Gingrich unveiled the plan in Iowa last week. The Dawsonville discussion was the first time the plan had been openly talked about in Georgia.

Im prepared to spend eight years of my life getting this country back on track, Gingrich said following his presentation detailing the first part of legislative proposals of his contract.

He said he did not want America to be just for him, but with him.

It could be the hardest presidency in 150 years, and I cannot do it alone, he said. We must be brave enough to reclaim our country.

Gingrich, who noted that Americas problems extend beyond Obama and the White House, said his in-depth plan calls for fundamental changes in Washington and across the country.

Gingrich, of Georgia, is the former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. He served in that role from 1995-1999.

The event was largely organized by lifetime Dawson resident Will Wade.

I care about our country and I really like what he [Gingrich] has to say, Wade said. His 21st Century Contract is something that lays out a plan, solutions, to get our country on the right track and cure its ills.

For more information about Gingrich and his campaign, visit newt.org.