Newsweek, August 2025
The Bush family could revitalize their political dynasty as Jonathan Bush, cousin of former President George W. Bush, considers a run for governor in Maine.
Bush-style conservatism has been on the outs in the modern GOP, as President Donald Trump’s brand of politics has dominated the party over the past decade since his first presidential bid in 2016. In 2022, George P. Bush’s defeat in the Texas attorney general GOP primary was viewed as the potential end of the decades-long political dynasty. But Jonathan Bush has taken steps to launch a gubernatorial campaign in Maine, a Democratic-leaning state with an independent streak, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Maine Governor Janet Mills’ retirement at the end of her term leaves open the Maine gubernatorial office, which has been held by both Democrats and Republicans over the years. Jonathan Bush is taking early steps to prepare for a potential gubernatorial run.
