At age 89, Barbara Bush could be the definitive influence on whether Jeb Bush enters the 2016 presidential race.
A source close to the family had
told Bloomberg's Mark Halperin that the former first lady has shifted to "neutral" from steadfastly against.
A spokesman for the Bush family said her widely quoted comment that "we've had enough Bushes" in the White House meant only that the family does not feel any "sense of entitlement."
The former first lady has made clear "countless times that Jeb would make a superb president," adding, "nothing has changed," Bloomberg reported.
Barbara Bush is said to be concerned that Jeb's wife, Columba Bush, would find the role of candidate's partner and possibly first lady too difficult. Her daughter-in-law is said to value her privacy and not want to be in the limelight.
She is now said to be doing more traveling with Bush and more occupied with his political ambitions, Bloomberg reported.
According to
The Washington Post the ultimate decision will rest largely on whether Columba, who was born in Mexico, can deal with the spotlight.
Sons Jeb Jr. and George P. are not opposed to their father running. Daughter Noelle is said to be well after a history of drug issues, Bloomberg reported.
The former Florida governor has yet to make a decision. Beyond family backing, a key question mark is whether Bush thinks he will be able to lead the Republican Party toward the political middle ground necessary to run the country, according to Bloomberg.
The conservative base opposes his approach to education and
immigration.
He would also have to overcome Bush fatigue — the legacy of having had a father and brother in the White House. Like Hillary Clinton he would have to establish that he has ideas beyond being a familiar brand, according to Bloomberg.
Supporters of a Bush candidacy say he would hit the ground running, easily set up an organization, and raise money with no difficulty. He could compete for the Hispanic vote and even make inroads among Democrats.
Bush would be the preferred candidate of the party's establishment, Bloomberg reported.
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