U.S. Allies Will Trust Jeb, George W. Says
Former President George W. Bush offered his full-fledged support for his brother Jeb’s candidacy during a campaign rally in South Carolina, the first public political event since he left office in 2009.
George W. – referring to Jeb as his big little brother – said Republican voters should choose a candidate who can lead America in challenging and serious times. “The presidency is a serious job that requires sound judgement and good ideas. And there’s no doubt in my mind that Jeb Bush has the experience and the character to be a great president,” said Bush.
“It is a vital that you select a candidate that is thoughtful and trustworthy,” the former president continued. “Someone who says what he means and does what he says. When the American president speaks, the world listens. You can trust Jeb Bush to be measured and thoughtful on the world stage. Our enemies and allies will know that when President Jeb Bush speaks, he will follow through on his words.”
In a recent interview with Jewish Insider, Jeb said his brother’s legacy on Israel will guide him as president.
Bush didn’t criticize his successor, President Barack Obama, or attack any of the other GOP hopefuls. But he took exception with an indirect swipe at Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump. “I understand that Americans are angry and frustrated. But we do not need someone in the Oval Office who mirrors and inflames our anger and frustration,” said Bush. “We need someone who can fix the problems that cause our anger and frustration. And that’s Jeb Bush.”
Jeb was a little more direct in targeting Trump.
But as the former President looked on, the younger Bush was cautious in naming Marco Rubio, his chief rival in the South Carolina primary, as he pushed back against the Florida Senator’s statement that he has zero foreign policy experience. “One of the candidates says I don’t have foreign policy experience. I tell you what I do have: I have [the] experience to make tough decisions,” he stated.
Earlier Monday, Rubio said that Jeb “has zero foreign policy experience.”