The Next Bush

In all of the euphoria about the end of the George W. administration, we have let our guard down about another Bush occupying the White House. Once upon a time, I wrote an entry warning about the political rise of Jeb Bush.* Naturally, it was a satirical piece fashioned like a narrative from a sci-fi movie trailer. It might have drawn a few laughs at the time, but a recent Fox News interview shows that this is no longer a laughing matter.

In the interview, Jeb’s father, former president George H.W. Bush, was asked about his son’s run for the Senate. Bush the elder replied that he thinks Jeb will make a good Senator, and he wouldn’t mind seeing him become President. Even the Fox correspondent seemed taken back by the suggestion. At this point, the senior Bush admitted that perhaps there have been too many Bushes in power lately. (Amen to that!)

Well, we dodged a bullet today when Jeb announced he would not run for the Senate in 2010. Still, in four years Jeb may actually set his sights on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. At this point, I don’t know if he would succeed, but stranger things have happened in national politics lately.

Jeb might be an all right guy as governor. He was very popular in Florida where he handled back to back hurricane emergencies with more finesse than his older brother. However, he can’t escape the fact that he is still a Bush! Dad’s one term was rather lackluster, although to be fair he had a tough act to follow: eight years of Ronald Reagan. Daddy Bush never really emerged from the shadow of the Great Communicator.

Then there is his older brother’s tenure. On second thought, don’t get me started on George W! How this man ever got elected — TWICE — will be one of the greatest mysteries of our nation’s history.

No, we must nip this in the bud now. In the past, I have joked about proposing a Constitutional amendment banning anyone in the Bush family from holding public office ever again. I always thought of my idea as a joke, simply because I know every court will dismiss it as highly discriminatory. Now, I don’t care anymore whether people take me seriously or not. I’m not joking anymore — we should consider such an amendment.

Of course the point could be moot if Jeb will reconsider his political aspirations. He ruled out a Senate run for now, but he left speculation about his future wide open. I don’t see anything wrong with ambition, but his family’s actions have not exactly left a good taste in our mouths. Jeb’s greatest handicap is his name. Perhaps he might be more successful in his quest if he changes his name to something like…oh, how about Kennedy.

Now there’s a truly inspiring political dynasty! It has high name recognition and has withstood numerous scandals over the years. Also remember that, when it comes to the Presidency, the Kennedy legacy is largely untried. True, John was elected, but he didn’t get a chance to finish his term. Brother Bobby didn’t survive the primaries. The youngest brother, Ted, has had a few embarrassing episodes in his career, but overall he has had a long distinguished tenure in the Senate.

Think about it, Jeb! The Bush name could be tainted for years to come. Changing your name could be your only chance at higher office. Don’t make us come after you with the Constitution - or whatever is left of it after your brother gets done with it.

*Bush Dynasty III, 6/8/2006