GOP has to unite behind Trump, says ... Jeb Bush's son?

Is this a non-endorsement endorsement, or an endorsing non-endorsement? George P. Bush, son of Jeb and the next rising star in the Bush family, has so far declined to issue an endorsement of the Republican Party’s presidential nominee — despite chairing the GOP’s statewide efforts for November. George P came under criticism for that dichotomy and attempted to address it … by not quite addressing it, according to the Texas Tribune:

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Addressing state GOP activists Saturday, Bush said it was time to put aside any lingering animosity from the primaries — where Trump defeated Bush’s dad, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, among others — and get behind Trump.

“From Team Bush, it’s a bitter pill to swallow, but you know what? You get back up and you help the man that won, and you make sure that we stop Hillary Clinton,” Bush said, according to video of the remarks provided by an audience member.

Bush was speaking in his capacity as the Texas GOP’s victory chairman, who is responsible for overseeing the party’s statewide campaign in November. Bush had been criticized for taking the role without backing the party’s presidential nominee.

It’s a season of mixed signals from the Bush clan. His Uncle Marvin endorsed Libertarian nominee Gary Johnson two weeks ago. Three weeks ago, Johnson hinted that George P’s dad might endorse him in the election:

So far, though, Jeb’s not talking about his perspective. Like John Kasich, Jeb demurred from speaking at the national convention, and pointedly remains mum, so it’s difficult to tell what he wants to communicate in regard to the presidential election. Even this speech is a mixed signal, of sorts. Bush didn’t go the Ted Cruz route by offering a ‘support the party but vote your conscience’ dodge. He exhorted people to vote for Trump, even while not quite getting to the point of issuing a personal endorsement.

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That’s certainly an understandable position for a man who’s looking to make a mark in national politics. A ringing call to unity it ain’t, though.

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Beege Welborn 5:00 PM | December 24, 2024
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