Romney receives his most important endorsement to date: Jeb Bush

Well, it’s done. Florida’s Jeb Bush endorsed Mitt Romney earlier today. In republican circles around the country that’s an important blessing, especially from someone who needs all the help he can get.

Actually, though, Mitt could not have done any better. Contrary to his brother the ex president, Jeb is respected nationwide as one of the few leaders of the Republican Party who people listen to. The ex Florida governor is also one of the most, if not the most, popular politicians in a state the republicans MUST carry if they have any hope of unseating President Obama.

One other thing that’s important come election day: the Hispanic community listens to Jeb Bush. They hear him and they’ve usually reacted to him positively – especially here in Florida. It also helps that Jeb speaks to them in almost perfect Spanish.

These are Romney’s words on the Bush endorsement: “Jeb Bush is synonymous with good government and with conservative policies that yield results. He has long demonstrated an outstanding ability to bring people together. I therefore take tremendous pride in having earned his endorsement. This is a key moment in the presidential contest and Jeb’s counsel and support will be critical in the coming months in my effort to defeat Barack Obama and turn around our country.”

Only time will tell how much the younger Bush helps. But one can’t overlook important endorsements. And this is as important as they get for the republican frontrunner. It reminds me of four years ago when Obama received the presidential nod from Ted Kennedy. In many people’s mind that moment may have been the difference in Obama’s heated battle with Hillary Clinton.

Alvaro F. Fernandez