In a rare public political appearance on Monday evening — the first in support of Jeb Bush — former President George W. Bush didn’t mention Donald Trump by name. But he seemed to talk about the New York businessman as much as he did his younger brother.

“I understand that Americans are angry and frustrated,” Bush told the crowd in Charleston, South Carolina. “But we do not need someone in the Oval Office who mirrors and inflames our anger and frustration. We need someone who can fix the problems that cause our anger and frustration. And that’s Jeb Bush.”

In an apparent swipe at Trump, Bush at one point railed against “theatrics” and “bluster” and said “the strongest person isn’t usually the loudest one in the room.”

Displaying political skills his brother seems to lack at times, the former president was joined on stage by former first lady Laura Bush and said: “I came here for two reasons: one, because I care deeply about Jeb. And two, because I care deeply about our country.”

Added Bush: “The presidency is a serious job that requires sound judgement and good ideas. And there’s no doubt in my mind that Jeb Bush has the experience and the character to be a great president.”

“It is a vital that you select a candidate that is thoughtful and trustworthy,” the former president said. “Someone who says what he means and does what he says. When the American president speaks, the world listens. You can trust Jeb Bush to be measured and thoughtful on the world stage. Our enemies and allies will know that when President Jeb Bush speaks, he will follow through on his words.”

Speaking about the general election, Bush said: “We need to nominate somebody who can win in November. All the sloganeering and all the talk don’t matter if we don’t win.”

Jeb Bush could use some momentum heading into the election, especially after mediocre finishes in Iowa and New Hampshire. According to the Real Clear Politics polling average, he is in fourth place behind Trump, Texas Sen. [crscore]Ted Cruz[/crscore] and Florida Sen. [crscore]Marco Rubio[/crscore] in the Palmetto State.

The former president is thought to be popular with Republicans in South Carolina, especially among the military population. The state goes to the polls on Saturday.

During the presidential debate on Saturday, Trump dismissed the argument that Bush kept America safe as president, saying: “How did he keep us safe when the World Trade Center came down?”

Referring to Trump’s recent criticism, South Carolina Sen. [crscore]Lindsey Graham[/crscore] opened the rally by saying, “Mr. President, thank you for coming back to South Carolina where you’re truly loved and appreciated. Thank you for keeping us safe while you were president of the United States.”

Bush told the crowd: “If serving as president of the United States makes me part of the so-called establishment, I proudly carry that label.”

“There seems to be a lot of name calling going on,” he added, “but I want to remind you what our good dad told me one time: labels are for soup cans.”

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