Jeb Bush Endorses McCain

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By Katharine Jose

February 11, 2008 | 2:41 p.m

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The McCain campaign just announced that Jeb Bush, older brother of George W. and former Governor of Florida, is endorsing John McCain.

Although his family is hardly at its most popular, the elder Bush brother's endorsement makes a statement about the Republican establishment rallying around McCain. George W. has been encouraging Republicans to support McCain and called the Senator a "true conservative," he has stopped short of an endorsement.

Jeb confirmed that he wrote a check to McCain's campaign over the weekend.

Here's the release:

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that former Florida Governor Jeb Bush has endorsed John McCain for president. "John McCain is a patriot and devoted conservative leader," said Governor Bush. "Like no other candidate in the field, John McCain has made tremendous sacrifices for this nation. He is beholden to no interest other than that of the public good. He is determined and steadfast in his commitment to reducing the burden of high taxes, restoring the people's trust in their government, and winning the war against radical Islamic extremists. It is with pride that I announce my endorsement of John McCain for president."

John McCain thanked Governor Bush, saying, "I am very proud to have Jeb Bush's support. He has a distinguished record of conservative leadership and I admire his dedicated service to the people of Florida. He makes a great addition to our growing team of Republican leaders." Jeb Bush was born in Midland, Texas. After earning his bachelor's degree at the University of Texas at Austin, Mr. Bush married Columba Garnica Gallo. Mr. Bush started his career in Florida politics as the Chairman of the Dade County Republican Party. He was later appointed to serve as Florida's Secretary of Commerce. Mr. Bush served as Florida's 43rd governor from 1999-2006 and was the first Republican ever to serve two terms.