George W. Bush Inspires the Next Generation — Beyond Politics

Former President George W. Bush is inspiring his grandchildren to explore their passions — far beyond the Oval Office. “I don’t think any of my kids are thinking political. None of my children are like, ‘Let me be the president!’”

Twin sister Barbara Bush, who co-authored the new children’s book I Loved You First with Jenna, agrees. Her two children, Cora Georgia, 3, and Edward, 7 months, are focused on simpler joys — like milk for now.

“Jefe” and the Aspiring Artist

The grandchildren affectionately call their grandfather “Jefe.” Surprisingly, he shares a lot in common with Cora Georgia. “We’re still learning who she is, but she’s very gentle, which I would say is from Mom [Laura Bush], and she’s very creative. She loves making stuff, which — to our surprise — is my dad, who’s an artist and a painter,” Barbara said.

Cora Georgia enjoys spending time in Jefe’s studio, painting with her grandfather. “She would say she’s going to be an artist like Grandpa,” Barbara added.

Bush Family Art and Inspiration

Since retiring, George W. Bush has focused on painting. He has published two art books:

• Out of Many, One, featuring oil portraits of American immigrants to highlight compassionate reform and benefit programs.

• Portraits of Courage, honoring wounded veterans.

He also paints family members and pets. On March 25, Jenna shared on Today that daughter Mila, 11, asked her grandfather to paint a portrait of her cat — a request he happily fulfilled.

The Kids Dream Big

Like Cora Georgia, Jenna’s daughters are beginning to imagine their futures. “Mila wants to be a doctor because she’s obsessed with Grey’s Anatomy. Thank you, Meredith Grey,” Jenna joked. “Poppy wants to be a model, which is great. Hal, 5, doesn’t know yet.”

When asked which family members the kids resemble, Jenna noticed traits from everyone. “Mila has a very similar disposition to my mom and my sister — quieter, gentle, curious, super empathetic. Poppy has a bit of my dad with the desire to entertain and dance,” she explained.

Barbara added, “Poppy’s funny.”

Jenna laughed about Hal: “He’s all boy, but very loving and gentle. He probably has a little bit of me in the destructiveness.”

Carrying the Family Legacy

The Bush grandchildren are discovering who they are while connecting with family traditions. Whether through art, curiosity, or play, George W. Bush’s grandchildren are embracing their own paths — and doing it with a lot of love, laughter, and inspiration from Jefe.