Rob Gronkowski shows up outside New Hampshire polling site, urges people to vote

The former New England Patriots star said it doesn't matter what party people vote for, so long as they get out there and vote.

Voters who turned out at a Bedford, New Hampshire, polling location Tuesday morning had a unique opportunity this Election Day -- meeting former New England Patriots star Rob Gronkowski.

Gronkowski, calling himself "the cherry on top of a cookie cake," said his message is simple.

"My message out here in New Hampshire is just to go out there and vote. It doesn't matter what party you're voting for. It's just important that you go out there and vote and that's what it's all about," he said.

"Today this is a special morning, we're out here, it's a beautiful day out and it's bringing people together and it's awesome," he added, noting the "air is crisp" in the "beautiful state of New Hampshire."

Gronkowski was joined by his longtime girlfriend, Camille Kostek, saying of the model "She's looking extra pretty for everyone."

The former NFL tight end was meeting and talking with fans, taking pictures with them and even signing items like hats and jerseys -- all while encouraging people to vote.

"It's just great to see how many people are coming out here to vote," Gronkowski said, noting it's all about freedom. "My mama raised me well."

NH Gov. Kelley Ayotte was at the Bedford polling location as well and came over and spoke to both Gronkowski and Kostek, thanking them for coming out and saying she was thrilled to have them.

It appears some Granite State voters received a text message on Monday, informing them of Gronkowski's appearance at the polls.

It wasn't immediately clear what brought Gronkowski to the Bedford polling location, or if he was with any particular organization.

This story originally appeared on NBCBoston.com.