Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich will make it official this Wednesday – he's running for the Republican presidential nomination for 2012. Gingrich, a former Georgia resident, is expected to make an announcement via Twitter and Facebook this Wednesday and then appear on Fox News' “Hannity” to discuss his bid, according to USA Today.

In a Facebook post put up a short while ago, Gingrich thanked supporters ahead of his announcement:

“I have been humbled by all the encouragement you have given me to run. Thank you for your support. Be sure to watch Hannity this Wednesday at 9pm ET/8pm CT. I will be on to talk about my run for President of the United States.”

The Republican field is finally starting to take shape after several would-be candidates have thrown their hat into the primary ring. Gingrich joins radio personality Herman Cain, Texas Congressman Ron Paul, Former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson, political consultant (and gay man) Fred Karger and former Gov. of Minnesota Tim Pawlenty.

Several other candidates are expected to make an announcement, including Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and business mogul Donald Trump.

Gingrich's positions aren't particularly favorable to LGBT equality. Gingrich does not support marriage or adoption rights for same-sex couples.

His campaign headquarters are located in Atlanta. He announced in March his plans to “judge the waters” and created a website to register supporters.

Top photo: Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich will announce his bid for the White House in 2012 this Wednesday. (via Facebook)