Free Republic

It's a Sad Day in Bushville: Jeb's Family and Friends Rally Around Him After He Pulls Out of GOP Race. Shortly after Jeb Bush announced his departure from the presidential race Saturday evening, brother George W. Bush issued a statement congratulating his younger sibling on his efforts – and for remaining above the fray in an unprecedented election cycle. "Tonight I talked to my brother and congratulated him on his campaign for the Presidency," the 43rd president said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. "I told Jeb how proud I am of him and his staff for running a campaign...

Some of Jeb Bush's most steadfast allies think Saturday might be the end. Donors, who poured millions into his campaign and super PAC, have stopped giving – one refusing a direct request to raise $1 million this week. Bush himself is hitting the phones, pleading for patience with his most influential supporters. And even some of his confidants are suddenly dejected after a dispiriting week capped off by South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley rejecting Bush in favor of Marco Rubio. "What a kick in the balls," said one of Bush's closest supporters and one of the more than a dozen...