Neil Bush, the brother of former President George W. Bush, has publicly announced that he voted for Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico in Texas, delivering another high-profile break with the Republican Party as Talarico faces Republican Ken Paxton in the race.

In a Facebook post, Bush said his decision was driven by what he described as concerns about Paxton’s record and admiration for Talarico’s character and principles.

“My vote was motivated by two things: deep concern about Ken Paxton’s record and genuine admiration for the character and principles I see in James Talarico,” Bush wrote.

He also criticized President Donald Trump and Republicans who have supported him, arguing that they have caused significant damage to the GOP. Bush further said he disagreed with Paxton’s concerns about the conduct of the 2020 presidential election.

Bush praised Talarico’s approach to contentious issues, writing that he had been “enormously impressed by the way he approaches complicated and controversial issues.” He also described the Democrat’s faith as a source of “humility, compassion, and conviction.”

Talarico’s religious background has been the subject of previous scrutiny. His Austin church is led by the Rev. Jim Rigby, whom Talarico has described as his pastor and one of the biggest influences on him as a Christian and as a person. Rigby has drawn attention for statements welcoming atheists into his church and for questioning aspects of traditional Christian belief, including the resurrection of Jesus.

Bush’s endorsement is the latest sign of division within the extended Bush family over the Texas Senate contest. Barbara Bush, the daughter of George W. Bush, recently donated $2,500 to a super PAC supporting Talarico. She also campaigned for former Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 presidential election.

George W. Bush, meanwhile, has supported other Republican Senate candidates. He headlined a fundraiser for several GOP contenders, including Sens. Susan Collins, Jon Husted and Dan Sullivan, as well as candidates Ashley Hinson, Mike Rogers, John Sununu and Michele Tafoya. Paxton was notably absent from the list of candidates supported at the event.

Neil Bush has also drawn attention in the past for his business dealings. Federal regulators and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation sued him following the collapse of Silverado Banking, Savings and Loan Association in Denver, alleging gross negligence. Bush ultimately paid a settlement in connection with the case.

The competing endorsements underscore divisions among prominent Republicans and members of the Bush family as the Texas Senate race continues. Neil Bush has made clear that his support for Talarico stems from his opposition to Paxton and his broader dissatisfaction with Trump’s influence on the Republican Party.