HOUSTON - Because the Republican nominating contest isn’t officially over, President Bush isn’t yet free to endorse a candidate — but that’s only true of the President Bush who’s currently in office.

His father Monday endorsed John McCain, saying there’s nobody who’s “better prepared to lead our nation.”

The move sends a strong signal to Republicans who aren’t convinced about the Arizona senator. George H.W. Bush says McCain’s commitment to America is “beyond any doubt,” and that he has the “right character and values” to guide the nation. McCain says he’s honored by the endorsement, adding that he thinks Bush’s words will help unite the party.

The endorsement follows that of another Bush — former Florida Governor Jeb Bush.