Sorry to break the news, Mitt, but it’s time to stop the commander-in-chief daydreaming.
Jeb Bush took all the wind out of those sails yesterday, announcing he is exploring a run for president.
Romney advisers predicted the former Bay State governor would only jump in if there wasn’t a clear moderate Republican in the race. Jeb Bush fills that void.
The former Republican governor of Florida is the first member of the GOP to throw his hat into the 2016 sweepstakes, where he’ll bask in front-runner status.
Potential opponents are weighing their options and chances of beating Bush before making their final decision. Republican dollars will now dry up for other center-right conservatives like Mitt Romney and Chris Christie.
Pat Griffin of Purple Strategies told Boston Herald Radio the GOP now has someone to focus on.
“In Republican politics we like establishments,” Griffin said. “There are establishments and then there are generational establishments. When Gov. Bush posted on Facebook that he was thinking about running, it sent a chill across the country to big Republican donors saying keep your powder dry and be patient, and they will.”
Jeb Bush and Mitt Romney are the two mainstream Republican candidates capable of raising enough cash for a presidential campaign — but the Bush brand could put a lock on all the fundraising, Griffin added.
Alas, it’s time for Mitt Romney to lower his great expectations. Marco Rubio should join him.
Rubio, a U.S. senator from Florida, won’t take on Jeb Bush and also knows it is not his turn. Bush spent eight years courting donors while running the Corner Office. Rubio won’t be able to penetrate Bush’s network. Even though they share donors and supporters, Rubio knows Bush will win the fundraising battle.
Expect a news release in the coming weeks stating Rubio is seeking re-election in the Senate. Jeb just made that happen.
Jaclyn Cashman is co-host of “Morning Meeting” on Boston Herald Radio.
Copyright © 2024 Jaclyn Cashman.
