Newt Gingrich endorsed by Duke Cunningham Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham and his wife, Nancy, are shown during a news conference in this July 2005 photo. The good news: Newt Gingrich has reportedly received a former House colleague's endorsement, something that has not been very common. The bad news: It's from Randy "Duke" Cunningham, the former California GOP congressman who is currently serving a 100-month sentence in federal prison on conspiracy, fraud and tax evasion charges. Here's part of the note allegedly sent to Gingrich by Cunningham, according to Voice of San Diego: Newt, a voice out of the past. Down but not out and still fighting. First I do not want anything from you but have been watching the debates. I have 80% of inmates that would vote for you. They might not be able to but their extended families will. Cunningham is currently incarcerated in Tucson and scheduled for release in June 2013. Read the entire letter here.