APNewsBreak: George P. Bush runs for Texas office

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — George P. Bush filed paperwork Tuesday to run for Texas land commissioner next year, hoping to continue his family's two-president political dynasty in one of the country's most conservative states.

Spokesman Trey Newton told The Associated Press that Bush filed the official paperwork to run for the office, which is a popular stepping stone to higher posts.

Bush is the nephew of George W. Bush and grandson of George H.W. Bush.

An attorney and Spanish speaker whose mother is originally from Mexico, Bush is considered a rising star among conservative Hispanics.

Hispanics accounted for two-thirds of Texas' population growth over the last decade and now make up 35 percent of its population. They tend to vote overwhelmingly Democratic. Bush is a Republican.

The Texas land commissioner administers state-owned lands and mineral resources.

Bush is the son of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and his wife, Columba, who was born in Mexico.

George P. Bush has been active in politics for years. Last summer, he was promoted to deputy finance chairman of the Texas Republican Party.

Even though he had yet to officially settle on an office, Bush's campaign raised an impressive $1.3 million between early November and Dec. 31.

Current Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson said he believes running with the Bush name is "both a blessing a curse." He described Bush as smart and qualified but stopped short of offering an official endorsement Tuesday.

Matt Glazer, executive director of the liberal advocacy group Progress Texas, suggested it may be too early to anoint the next Bush a future political force to be reckoned with.

"Serving in elected office is a privilege, not a birthright," Glazer said in a statement. "George Bush must go through the same public screening as any other candidate."