Eric Cantor, the former House majority leader who was tossed from Congress by voters in 2014 who perceived him as making too many concessions to Democrats, has not only come forward to endorse Jeb Bush for president – but he’s also going to be leading up the former Florida governor’s campaign efforts in Virginia.
Politico, citing Republican sources, reported Cantor will become Virginia’s co-chair of Bush’s political campaign.
“This is a big deal for Eric and a big deal for Jeb,” said one leading Republican involved in the deal, Politico said.
And another source from the Cantor camp said to the media outlet: “They have known each other for a long time, speak regularly and have great mutual respect for one another. Eric believes he is the only candidate with a real long-term vision for the country who can also actually implement it, not just talk about it.”
In a tweet, Cantor wrote: “@JebBush is a true leader w/ a long-term vision for our country and he knows how to implement it – not just talk about it. I’m #AllInForJeb.”
Cantor also put out a formal statement, calling Bush a “true conservative leader” with loads of political and leadership experience who will help bolster America’s economy, CNN reported.
“After eight years of anemic growth and declining international relevance,” he wrote, “America needs a president that can re-energize our nation and recapture our greatness. Jeb Bush is that man. I look forward to working closely with the governor and his team as they chart a course to the White House.”
Political insiders say Cantor – whose primary loss in 2014 to political newcomer Dave Brat was a shocker to many, especially after it was learned the long-time congressional leader spent $1 million in the lead-up to the election, versus the $100,000 of his opponent – is angling for a cabinet role.
Political watchers also express surprise at Bush’s willingness to tout Cantor’s endorsement as a great thing for the campaign. Panelists on Fox News speaking with host Bret Baier suggested Bush campaign strategists made a big misstep with the announcement, given Cantor’s obvious loss of favor with the conservative voter.
