Romney: Bush has ‘lived conservatism’

Former Gov. Mitt Romney (R-Mass.) said on Sunday that Republicans should not doubt the conservative credentials of possible GOP presidential candidate Jeb Bush.

Romney argued that Bush, Florida’s former governor, would proudly represent conservative values should he seek the White House in 2016.

{mosads}“Governor Bush is a man of integrity,” Romney, the 2012 GOP nominee, told host Chuck Todd on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”

“He has very strong record,” he said. “He doesn’t have to speak his way into conservatism, he’s lived conservatism.”

Romney’s praise comes as Bush weighs an Oval Office bid next election cycle.

He is expected to formally launch his campaign on Monday from Miami.

Romney also said on Sunday that Bush had laid the groundwork for a strong presidential run.

He lauded Bush for focusing on his gubernatorial achievements and working hard in early voting states like Iowa.

“Jeb Bush did a superb job as governor,” Romney said.

“He’s been doing what has to be done to launch a very successful campaign,” he added.

Romney additionally complimented the GOP’s 2016 ticket overall.

“If you look at the Republican side, almost everyone there has had the opportunity to lead, to manage,” he said. “We have a very strong field.”

Romney then urged the crowded list of GOP contenders to remain focused on the greater good of their party rather than their individual interests.

“I think it’s harmful to the process if you have Republicans attacking Republicans,” he said.

“I think it’s effective to instead talk about our views on helping the poor as opposed to the views of our opposition,” Romney said.

“Our policies are designed to get people out of poverty and help raise incomes,” he added. “Each of our candidates needs to communicate that to minority voters.”