Overview
- Neil Bush posted on his official Facebook account that he voted early for Democrat James Talarico, saying on Oct. 20 he was driven by “deep concern” about Ken Paxton’s record and admiration for Talarico’s character.
- FEC filings reported by local outlets show Barbara Pierce Bush gave $2,500 on Sept. 23 to Lone Star Rising PAC, a pro-Talarico group, a donation experts said appears intentionally public and symbolic.
- Conservative commentators and some Republican figures criticized the Bush family’s moves while George W. Bush has not publicly responded to his relatives’ support.
- The Bush actions highlight Paxton’s past controversies — including his role in post‑2020 election litigation and a 2023 impeachment by the Texas House — which supporters say shaped the family’s decision.
- The disclosures come as early voting surges, polls show a close race, and heavy outside spending is flowing into Texas, a dynamic that could make moderate and undecided voters more influential in the outcome.