Staff Reports
The Tampa Bay Times, Florida’s largest newspaper, has endorsed former Gov. Jeb Bush for the Republican nomination.
In the editorial — posted online Thursday and scheduled to run in Sunday’s newspaper — the paper said Bush is the best choice for Republicans. In the recommendation, the Tampa Bay Times calls Bush one of the “most effective governors in Florida’s history,” who “reshaped the state with a steady stream of big ideas and unbending determination.”
The paper said Bush’s experience in government is key:
“Bush can capably steer a large government bureaucracy, and he has proven his leadership skills in times of crisis. He guided Florida through eight hurricanes, including four in six weeks in 2004, that scarred communities, left billions in damage and decimated the property insurance market. The importance of a steady hand and administrative competence when the public needs both help and reassurance should not be underestimated.”
The newspaper said race for the GOP nomination has not played out how many expected, and said Republican front-runner Donald Trump “has tapped into anger among many Republicans about the economy, fears of terrorism and deep dissatisfaction” with President Barack Obama.
The paper called Ted Cruz a “dangerous alternative” to Trump, and said John Kasich “has experience and sensible values,” but doesn’t appear to have the money for the long haul.
The newspaper said Florida Republican Marco Rubio was the “most polished orator in the Republican field,” but also said there was “nothing in his record to indicate he is prepared to be president.”
The Tampa Bay Times continued:
“This is a pivotal moment for the Republican Party, which has to broaden its message and its appeal to women and minorities to ensure its long-term future. Bush has the best potential to connect with the voters in a general election and take the nation forward rather than backward. For the Republican nomination for president, the Tampa Bay Times recommends Jeb Bush.”
The Iowa caucuses are Monday, followed by the New Hampshire primary on Feb. 9. Florida’s presidential preference primaries are on March 15.
