The 43rd president was the recipient of harsh criticism, especially as Election Day neared, as he remained quiet throughout the campaign season.
It wasn’t until Wednesday at 11 a.m. that Bush spoke on the historic election.
“I congratulate President Trump on his election as 47th President of the United States of America, as well as Vice President-elect JD Vance and their families,” he said in a statement.
Bush, 78, also briefly, thanked President Biden and Vice President Harris for their service before continuing to praise the “strong turnout” at the polls.
“Laura and I are grateful to the election officials, poll workers, and volunteers who oversaw a free and fair election,” he wrote. “We join our fellow citizens in praying for the success of our new leaders at all levels of government. May God continue to bless our great country.”
While Bush turned off the comments on his Instagram post, the statement, which was also shared on X received hundreds of comments. Some praised the former president for keeping his opinion to himself, while others blamed him for not speaking up.
“I can’t believe I voted for you twice. You stood on the sidelines while the house burned down and did nothing. Shame on you! Shame on you!!!” a former supporter wrote.
“I have my issues with you, but this was a class move. You stayed out of it and then congratulated all parties. Thank you,” someone else commented.
Meanwhile, someone simply wrote, “Go away.”
