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Eight things to know about Jeb Bush's record

Jeb Bush, governor of Florida from 1999 to 2007, is actively exploring a run for president. As a member of the Bush political dynasty, Jeb already has a famous name. But what did he do as governor, and what has he done since?

8. Bush has become a high-flying businessman

Michael Fiala/Reuters
Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush walks on the 13th hole during the first round of the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am golf tournament on the Monterey Peninsula Country Club course in Pebble Beach, Calif., February 6, 2014.

After leaving the governor’s office in 2007, Bush set out to make money – and has succeeded handsomely.

He “embarked on a whirlwind of deals, partnerships, and advisory positions in aggressive pursuit of that goal,” Bloomberg wrote Dec. 11, 2014.

As of April, he had earned at least $3.2 million in board fees and stock grants, and has given more than 100 speeches at $50,000 a pop, according to The New York Times.

These reporters suggest the press will have a field day exploring Bush’s financial life. And they raise the specter of 2012 GOP nominee Mitt Romney, who stumbled as he tried to explain his business dealings to voters. At least Bush, and his advisers, should be aware of the pitfalls. And it’s not as if wealthy candidates haven’t been elected president in the past.

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Mark Sappenfield
Editor

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