Maine Republican Party Auction: Bush Buys Trump Cufflinks for $2,600

Jonathan S. Bush, the nephew and cousin of former presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, made headlines at a recent auction benefiting the Maine Republican Party. The event saw a pair of cufflinks worn by former President Donald Trump go for $2,000, followed by a pair worn by Trump’s first press secretary, Sean Spicer, fetching $2,600. The buyer of Spicer’s cufflinks was none other than Jonathan S. Bush himself, a wealthy scion of one of America’s most famous families.

Bush’s purchase of Spicer’s cufflinks raised eyebrows as it seemed to be a subtle jab at Trump, whom Bush referred to as “personally troubled.” Despite his family’s ties to the Republican Party, Bush has expressed a desire to support “non-kook members of both parties” and has been critical of Trump’s influence on the GOP.

Living in Maine full time, Bush is looking to increase his involvement in state politics, meeting with party officials to discuss funding initiatives. He sees an opportunity for Republicans in Maine to reposition themselves and believes that a more moderate approach could lead to success in the state’s government.

Bush’s move to Maine coincided with his resignation as CEO of athenahealth, the health care tech company he founded. He now runs Zus Health, a Massachusetts-based startup focused on improving patient data accessibility. Despite his unconventional leadership style, Bush is seen as a likable character, known for his freewheeling personality and willingness to engage in political discussions.

While Bush has supported political candidates and causes across the country, he has given relatively little to Maine politicians. However, he has shown support for Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins and donated to both Democratic and Republican candidates in the state.

As the Bush family’s political legacy faces uncertainty, with two Bushes in Texas losing primaries in 2022, Jonathan S. Bush has not ruled out the possibility of running for office in Maine. While he jokes about the idea, he remains focused on supporting leaders and staying engaged in the political landscape.

Overall, Bush’s foray into Maine politics highlights the complexities of his family’s relationship with the Republican Party and his own efforts to navigate a changing political landscape in the state.