The Bush family may be preparing for a return to politics with Jonathan Bush, cousin of former President George W. Bush and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, exploring a 2026 run for governor of Maine. The move would revive one of America’s most prominent political dynasties after nearly a decade out of elected office.
Jonathan Bush has launched an exploratory committee and formed a policy group called Maine for Keeps to shape his campaign platform. He has focused his message on education, housing, and entrepreneurship, calling for an end to what he describes as Maine’s “learned helplessness.” His pitch emphasizes restoring the “Maine Dream” by combining business innovation with public service.
The potential campaign has full family backing. A fundraiser hosted at the Bush family’s Walker’s Point compound in Kennebunkport drew support from both George W. Bush and Jeb Bush, signaling the family’s willingness to mobilize its political network. The Bushes have had deep ties to Maine for over a century, with their summer estate long serving as a base for both family gatherings and political events.
The 2026 race is expected to be competitive. Democratic Governor Janet Mills is term-limited, opening the field to a range of candidates from both parties. Democrats are likely to run Shenna Bellows or Hannah Pingree, while Republicans see Jonathan Bush as a candidate who could appeal to Maine’s tradition of independent, moderate voters. Former GOP state senator Rick Bennett, now an independent, is also weighing a campaign.
Observers note that while the Bush family name carries weight nationally, Maine voters have a history of rejecting political dynasties in favor of local authenticity. Jonathan Bush’s challenge will be to balance his family’s legacy with a message tailored to Maine’s unique political culture.
