George P. Bush off to unpolished start as Texas candidate

George P. Bush talks about education as he makes the opening statements at the Texas Business Leadership Council, Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) George P. Bush talks about education as he makes the opening statements at the Texas Business Leadership Council, Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) Photo: Eric Gay, Associated Press Photo: Eric Gay, Associated Press Image 1 of / 26 Caption Close George P. Bush off to unpolished start as Texas candidate 1 / 26 Back to Gallery



NEW BRAUNFELS — George Prescott Bush is off to a safe but also unpolished start as a political candidate in Texas.

Bush on Friday stumbled over his words and sometimes appeared nervous in his first public speech since announcing his run for Texas Land Commissioner.

A luncheon of about 200 people at a policy conference near Austin nonetheless treated Bush to enthusiastic applause.

The 36-year-old nephew of former President George W. Bush didn't take big risks in his political debut. He urged Texas lawmakers to continue prioritizing education and pledged to take a special interest in the welfare of veterans.

Bush is the son of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush but kept his remarks focused on Texas.

No other serious challengers have filed to run against George P. Bush in 2014.