While the Republican Party establishment’s anticipated royal road to the presidential nomination for Jeb Bush has evaporated in front of their eyes, it’s only part of their nightmare.
For one thing, the usual stay-in-line pathway from one national presidential round to the next – finish second in the primaries and you’re likely to be the nominee next time – is falling apart. Just who’s in the pipeline now?
If Jeb was supposed to be rewarded for staying put while brother W took the stage, what we’re seeing a sibling with far less campaign savvy when put to the test. W, at least, could affect a public touch, unlike the stiffness we’re now seeing in mingling with the common classes. On top of that, what had been hailed Bush Dynasty is being found empty of any treasured accomplishment among the public. Why continue with mediocrity and failure?
Just what was the big-money donors seeing, anyway?
As Donald Trump surged out of, uh, left field to take the lead – and keep gaining – Jeb had one task if he’s serious about the nomination: cut into the front-runner’s lead. That means standing up to Trump at every turn. Show some strength and courage. Throw a few effective punches.
But that’s not what we’ve seen.
With the monetary resources of Right to Rise USA, the super PAC supporting his drive – it had $102.5 million back in August – Jeb could be relentlessly targeting the man in front of him.
Instead, our postal carrier has been delivering daily attacks printed on oversize card stock – full-color posters, 8.5-by-11 to -14 inches – deriding Chris Christie’s record as New Jersey governor and now Ohio Governor John Kasich, too. Jeb’s attacks on Marco Rubio have already taken on a tone of personal animosity.
In effect, Jeb is shooting at the other members of the posse that should all be in pursuit of, well, the guy who’s stealing their party. Or taking it back, depending.
These are not inexpensive flyers, either, but their “issues” are feeling sadly out of touch with potential voters, especially in a state where independents can weigh in with primary votes. He keeps touting “conservative” versus “liberal” labels, especially the TAX word, rather than coming up with anything that would directly benefit the typical American.
Aren’t any of his staff listening to Trump? Say what we will about the front-runner, he seems to know his audience. Maybe he also senses there’s no threat from the candidates running behind him.
It’s enough to make me wonder: Is Jeb intentionally working for Trump in keeping the pack at bay?
Jnana's Red Barn 
You just liked my post about Bernie. Just curious – how did you find me in the blogosphere? Looks like you write about some really interesting stuff – I look forward to perusing your material. Best, Carla
The WordPress Reader is a delightful resource, and checking tags for the latest postings has introduced some strong voices to my awareness.
The Reader really does build a community for kindred spirits. For me, it often feels like getting letters from trusted pen pals around the world. So here we are! Cheers!