Political newbie George P. Bush already a star among conservatives

January 2, 2017

He’s dashing. He thinks fast on his feet. He’s a member of a political dynasty. And he can charm in flawless English and Spanish.

George P. Bush, at 38, has the rather obscure-sounding title of Texas land commissioner. But the son of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, and nephew and grandson of U.S. presidents, is anything but obscure on the national stage.

After barely 30 days in office, he’s already headlined high-profile rallies on broad issues such as abortion and school choice.

Bush, whose state office administers Texas’ vast public lands and mineral rights, insists he’s not yet eyeing any moves up Texas’ political ladder. But the newest Bush in politics has wasted no time becoming a leading voice for top conservative causes and seizing the spotlight in a state already full of powerful Republicans.

“He’s a rising star in our state and nationally,” said Matt Mackowiak, a Republican strategist based in Austin. “He’s going to be in very high demand this year. They’re going to have to get good at saying no.”

His grandfather and an uncle are former presidents.

In the past, the land commissioner’s post has led to loftier political heights in Texas. David Dewhurst served in it before his 12 years as lieutenant governor, which ended last month. Bush’s more immediate goal might be to buoy his father, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, if he seeks the White House in 2016.

The son could help the father build a political beachhead in Texas, where Jeb Bush’s brother and George P. Bush’s uncle, George W. Bush, served as governor from 1995 until becoming president in 2000. It’s also a state where Jeb Bush may have to battle two Texans with probable presidential designs: former Gov. Rick Perry and tea party-backed Sen. Ted Cruz. Another likely GOP candidate, Sen. Rand Paul, represents Kentucky but grew up in Texas.