Bush looks for support from both Republicans and Democrats

BEDFORD, N.H. — GOP presidential hopeful Jeb Bush held a town hall Saturday morning at McKelvie Intermediate School, filling the gymnasium with decided and undecided voters alike from various backgrounds.

Among the crowd were members of both parties, residents of New Hampshire and university students. Some were undecided voters from out of state looking to get a first-hand experience with the presidential candidate.

Robert Campbell, a registered Democrat in Massachusetts, attended the town hall in his first trip to New Hampshire.

“He seems like a good guy,” Campbell said of Bush, “but he’s not connecting with people.”

Others had already made up their minds. Gail and Norm LaPrade, taking part in their first New Hampshire Primary as state residents, had supported both George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

“His name being Bush doesn’t turn us off,” Mrs. LaPrade said said of the former Florida governor. “He has good experience.”

LaPrade agreed. “To throw away people with experience, I think, is ridiculous,” he said.

After an introduction from Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Bush made a conscious effort to connect with the people while effectively leaning on his record as the governor of Florida. He referred to his “steady hand” and “peace through strength” approach to foreign policy.

John Berman of CNN described Bush’s appearance as “a good event. …[H]e’s been working very, very hard in this state.”