Newt Gingrich again vows to survive campaign turmoil

In his first campaign appearance since his senior staff resigned en masse last week, Newt Gingrich sought to restart his troubled bid for the White House Sunday.

The former House speaker largely avoided mention of his campaign troubles in a speech to the Republican Jewish Coalition in Los Angeles, though he hinted at the staff turmoil that threatens to overtake his 2012 campaign.

"As someone who has been in public life for nearly 40 years, I know full well the rigors of campaigning for public office," he said. "In fact, I have had some recent reminders."

But, Gingrich declared, "I will endure the challenges. I will carry the message of American renewal to every part of this great land, whatever it takes."

The event was only Gingrich's second campaign appearance in as many weeks. In a move that in part prompted his campaign implosion last week, Gingrich spent more than a week off the trail on vacation with his wife, Callista.

Last night, as ABC's Alex Stone reports, Gingrich avoided the media and refused to answer questions, "staring at (reporters) silently" despite being peppered with questions.

They weren't the only ones who were snubbed. According to ABC, a fan asked for an autograph as Gingrich jumped into a SUV after his speech.

"No," Gingrich replied and shut the door.

(Photo of Gingrich: Mark J. Terrill/AP)