Former President George W. Bush has announced that he will not endorse any candidate in the upcoming presidential election. This decision was confirmed by his office in a statement to NBC News on Saturday. The statement emphasized that Former President has retired from presidential politics and, as such, will not be participating in the current election cycle in an endorsing capacity.
No Public Endorsement from the Bush Family
When asked about potential endorsements from either George W. Bush or his wife, Laura Bush, the office reiterated that neither will be publicly endorsing any candidate or revealing how they intend to vote. The statement underscored that Bush’s departure from the political arena means he will not be influencing the election with public endorsements.
Cheney Endorsements for Vice President Kamala Harris
The lack of a Former President endorsement contrasts with recent high-profile endorsements for Vice President Kamala Harris. Dick Cheney, his former vice president, announced his support for Harris on Friday. Cheney criticized former President Donald Trump, labeling him as a significant threat to the republic due to his attempts to undermine the previous election results. Cheney’s daughter, Liz Cheney, also publicly declared her support for Harris, highlighting a growing rift among Republicans over Trump’s influence.
In response to the Cheneys’ endorsements, Harris expressed honor and appreciation, emphasizing that the endorsements reflect shared values and a commitment to the country. This shows an effort by Harris to align with moderate Republicans and differentiate herself from Trump.
Bush ’s Historical Endorsement Patterns
Bush’s decision is particularly notable given his past actions. In 2012, he endorsed Republican candidate Mitt Romney against then-President Barack Obama. Similarly, in 2008, he supported the late Senator John McCain. However, both Bush presidents have chosen to distance themselves from Trump in recent years, focusing instead on supporting Republican senators and avoiding direct commentary on Trump’s actions.
Despite Former President’s neutrality, several prominent moderate Republicans and former Trump administration officials have endorsed Harris. The Harris campaign recently announced endorsements from over two dozen Republicans, including former Massachusetts Governor Bill Weld, former Virginia Representative Denver Riggleman, and former Trump press secretary Stephanie Grisham. Additionally, more than 200 former staffers for both Bush presidents, McCain, and Romney signed a letter supporting Harris.
Harris Campaign’s Republican Outreach Efforts
In response to the endorsements and shifting Republican sentiments, the Harris campaign has ramped up efforts to engage with Republican voters. This includes hiring a national Republican engagement director and launching the “Republicans for Harris” program to attract independent and moderate Republican voters.
Former President George W. Bush’s decision not to endorse any candidate in the 2024 election reflects his withdrawal from active political involvement. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign continues to gain traction among moderate Republicans and former Trump officials, highlighting a significant realignment within the Republican Party.