Bush Reports Raising $773,000; $2.8 Million On Hand

Despite no previous experience in public office, George P. Bush, a Fort Worth attorney and son of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, continues to amass a sizable war chest in his campaign for Texas land commissioner.

Bush, grandson and nephew to the 41^st and 43^rd presidents of the United States, respectively, is considered the clear front-runner for the open seat. He faces East Texas businessman David Watts in the March primary. Former El Paso Mayor John Cook, a Democrat, and Steven Childs, a Libertarian, are also running.

From July to the end of December, Bush raised about $772,600. He spent close to $680,000 but has more than $2.8 million left on hand, according to his report. His Republican opponent raised about $7,000 and spent more than twice that amount, about $16,100. Watts has about $2,700 on hand and $4,000 in outstanding loan balances, according to his report totals.

Cook hauled in about $13,000 and reports a loan balance of $19,400. He spent about $17,000 and has no money left on hand. The Texas Ethics Commission shows no record for Childs.