The above, and I think he knows a major push is going to come forth in the coming weeks from the republican establishment and some, if not all, of the conservative media. He doesn't know that Rick will withstand that all, especially if they promise him if he does right by romney, next time it will be his turn... he will take one for the team again.
Newt, the bastard, won't give in and can't be bought. he already knows most of the party hates him. This is a man on a mission...