The AP's David Espo:
Republican officials say former House Speaker Newt Gingrich intends to take a formal step in the next two weeks toward a run for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination.
.... The officials say an announcement is likely in the first half of March. It is not clear what type of declaration he intends to make. Some White House hopefuls set up exploratory committees, while others simply announce their candidacy.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity, saying they were not authorized to disclose Gingrich's plans.
Meanwhile, another report has Gingrich announcing the formation of an exploratory committee on March 8.
Whichever the date and whichever the step, it seems that Newt is ready to be the first major contender to jump in.
