Nikki Haley is not exactly a big fan of Newt Gingrich

As Republicans ramp up their 2012 campaigns, South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is certain to be one of the most sought-after endorsements in the country, considering she's a rising star GOPer who presides over a key early primary state.

Haley, like other politicians, has been cagey about who she will support, but she's already giving big hints about who she won't endorse. Per The Fix's Aaron Blake, the South Carolina governor suggested to a group of reporters Monday that she thinks Newt Gingrich's time has passed.

"There was a place and time for him," Haley said. "I think there is a respect for him that he's been there and done that."

Asked whether she was suggesting his best years are behind him, the governor, who offered compliments to Mitt Romney, Mike Huckabee and Sarah Palin, tried to laugh it off. "Don't read into my words," Haley said. "You know, I'm just trying to be very honest with you."

(Photo of Haley: Charles Dharapak/AP)