Texas Democratic Senate contender James Talarico has received significant support from an unexpected member of the Republican Party. Barbara Bush, daughter of former President George W. Bush, has made a donation to the key political action committee (PAC) backing his campaign.
Since the 2016 campaign, George W. Bush has maintained a tense relationship with Donald Trump, who mocked his family. However, the recent financial support from Bush’s daughter arrives as Republicans aim to retain control of the U.S. Senate.
According to filings with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), Barbara Bush donated $2,500 to Lone Star Rising PAC this quarter. This PAC represents nearly all external financial support for Talarico’s campaign as reported by Houston Public Media.
Barbara Bush’s contribution stands out, despite being smaller than donations from major figures such as Don Henley, who contributed $150,000, because she openly connected her contribution to her prominent identity.
Texas campaign finance expert Andrew Cates highlighted Bush’s transparency saying, “She didn’t give it to a 501(c)(4), in which her contribution would’ve been completely anonymous. She gave it to a PAC that reports all the money in and out.”
Barbara Bush, a 44-year-old executive at the National Basketball Association, serves as vice president of social impact and inclusion. Her FEC filing listed a Clinton Hill, Brooklyn address.
The George W. Bush Presidential Center notes Barbara Bush’s international work in leveraging basketball’s influence for humanitarian causes like social justice, “health equity,” and sustainability. Additionally, she helped establish the Global Health Corps to engage youth in solving global health challenges. Alongside her sister Jenna Bush Hager, she has co-authored several children’s books.
Fox News Digital sought feedback from both the George W. Bush Presidential Center and Barbara Bush herself, but they did not provide a comment.
James Talarico has vocalized his stance against immense financial influences in political campaigns, criticizing figures such as Senator John Cornyn and competitor Ken Paxton for allowing corporations and billionaires to dictate elections.
Talarico emphasizes political pragmatism stating he will not “unilaterally disarm” in campaign funding yet recognizes the utilization of PACs by Republicans, according to the Texas Tribune.
Fox News Digital attempted to obtain a comment from Talarico’s campaign regarding Barbara Bush’s financial contribution.