Jeb Bush Bows Out of Campaign, Humbled and Outmaneuvered - The New York Times

Jeb Bush's Failed Presidential Bid

Jeb Bush's campaign for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination ended on Saturday with his withdrawal from the race. His campaign, initially perceived as having a strong chance of success due to a substantial war chest, a well-known name, and a promise of political civility, ultimately fell short of expectations.

Reasons for Failure

Several factors contributed to Bush's unsuccessful campaign:

• Candidate Style: Bush's reserved and cerebral approach contrasted sharply with the more charismatic and unconventional styles of other candidates.
• Shifting Republican Party: The Republican Party had shifted to the right since Bush's time as a governor, leaving his moderate stance out of sync with the current electorate.
• Dynastic Fatigue: The public's weariness with political dynasties, as presciently noted by Barbara Bush, proved to be a significant obstacle.
• Miscalculations: Bush's campaign rested on several incorrect assumptions: that voters would prioritize experience, that his style would be advantageous, and that his family name would be a positive factor.

Bush's campaign failed to resonate with Republican primary voters whose mood and priorities had evolved since his time as governor of Florida.