Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee and a surprise celebrity were greeted by a large Chattanooga crowd on Monday morning.
The former Arkansas governor with a conservative message drew a crowd that overflowed a large meeting room at the Convention Center.
After an initial talk, he said he wanted to introduce a man who would serve as both his secretary of defense and Homeland Security director and whom the terrorists would fear. Martial arts star Chuck Norris then took the stage.
After saying former Gov. Huck Huckabee was kidding about his serving in his administration, the actor said he had begun studying the Huckabee platform and then agreed to take part in the campaign.
He said he and his wife, Gina, had planned to be on vacation this week, but decided it could be delayed.
The candidate was introduced by Rep. Eric Watson, who said he stood for "faith, family and values."
Among those in the crowd was County Commission Chairman Bill Hullander.
The candidate, who was governor of Arkansas for over 10 years, said he would abolish the IRS and put in the fair tax. He said, "I want to be the President who nails the going out of business sign on the IRS."
He said he will erect a wall on the nation's borders within 18 months and end amnesty.
The candidate said he is thankful for the endorsement of Tennessee Right to Life and said he will "fight for the rights of the unborn on the national level."
He noted that opponent Mitt Romney has asked him to get out of the race, but he said the contest is not over until someone gets the needed number of votes.
He noted the New York Giants had won a big upset victory and said he can too.
Video: Huckabee In Chattanooga
Video: Chuck Norris In Chattanooga With Huckabee
Video: More From Norris At Huckabee Rally