George W. Bush: I think Jeb ‘wants to be president’

In this Aug. 6, 2014 photo, former U.S. President George W. Bush speaks at the "Investing in Our Future" forum at the US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush speaks during an event in Greensboro, N.C. on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2014. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton) (Reuters/AP)

Is Jeb Bush running for president? His brother sure seems to think he wants to.

"I think he wants to be president," former President George W. Bush told Fox News in an interview on Thursday, when asked about his brother's political plans.

Bush said he spoke with his brother, the former governor of Florida, on Wednesday and had encouraged him to run.

The former president nevertheless said he doesn't think Jeb has made a final decision.

"He understands what it's like to be president, for not only the person running or serving, plus family. He's seen his dad and brother.”

Much of the Republican establishment is encouraging Jeb Bush to enter the 2016 race, but his level of interest is unclear seven years after leaving the Florida governor's mansion. Other potential Republican candidates have been far more active in national politics recently, including New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, Texas Gov. Rick Perry and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz.

On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton is the overwhelming front-runner should she enter the race.

Jeb nevertheless is getting out on the campaign trail this year, for family and friends. He campaigned for his son George P. Bush in Texas Wednesday. He tweeted out the photos of his visit. George P. Bush is running for Texas Land Commissioner.

"He's a very thoughtful man and he's weighing his options," George W. Bush said of his brother.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.