WASHINGTON — Jeb Bush’s announcement Tuesday that he is “actively exploring” a 2016 presidential run scrambles the large Republican field, thrusting him to the front of the pack and locking up a huge swath of longtime party fundraisers being wooed by other candidates.
Bush, the 61-year-old son of one president and brother of another, declared in a Facebook post Tuesday that he intends to set up a leadership PAC in January to “discuss the most critical challenges facing our exceptional nation.”
His potential candidacy raises the prospect of a dynastic match between Bush and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who is the heavy favorite for the Democratic nomination if she chooses to run.
But first, Bush would have to get through the GOP primaries, where his conservative credentials are likely to be challenged by activists on the right who scorn his support for immigration and education reform.
For now, the early move by the former Florida governor is expected to severely undercut the financial backing for other possible 2016 contenders — New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Texas Gov. Rick Perry and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida. In addition, a Bush candidacy could make it difficult for lesser-known potential candidates, such as Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, to gain traction, well-connected Republicans said.
A Washington Post-ABC News poll released Tuesday found Bush with a narrow edge over a crowded field if Mitt Romney were not in the race. Bush garners 15 percent support among Republicans and GOP-leaning independents, with Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky and Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin each netting 11 percent.
If Romney were to run again, he would enter the race with 20 percent support, leading his rivals by 10 points or more.
“This frontloads everything,” said Bobbie Kilberg, a top Republican fundraiser in Virginia. “What he’s saying is, ‘I’m out, and I’m ready.’ And so it puts pressure on others in the center-right to do the same.”
Former New York Gov. George Pataki and Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said Tuesday they are considering runs.
