George W. Bush revealed yesterday that his daughter, Barbara Bush, is in fact adopted. A publicist for the former president posted a statement on Bush's Facebook page:
"President Bush adopted Barbara from a San Francisco couple as a newborn. She was NOT conceived by George and Laura Bush. Any beliefs held by Barbara are her own and do not reflect the opinion of the President, or the Bush Family."
The announcement seems to be a preemptive attempt at damage control over a controversial video Barbara recorded for the Human Rights Campaign in which she endorses same-sex marriage. A position contrary to the beliefs of the Christian conservative right that got her father elected president.
Bush's daughter is only the latest in a string of politicians' children that found out they were adopted late in life. Ron Reagan Mary Cheney and Meghan McCain all found out in adulthood they were not their parent's biological child.
When asked if Barbara should legally change her last name Bush stated "I don't care what she calls herself as long as it ain't Bush! He chuckled, then went on to quip "Maybe she should change her name Maddow?"
