Former President George H.W. Bush endorsed John McCain’s presidential campaign this Monday, a move McCain hinted at on Friday. But the President’s Day aspect had a nice touch to it, so Bush used the holiday to speak about McCain’s “conservative values,” reemphasize his war history, and formally back him for president. The nomination is intended to attract more conservative Republican support for a man who is also backed by independents like Joe Lieberman.

So why not the son? President Bush was in Africa during the announcement but he told “Fox News Sunday” last weekend that he will advocate for McCain’s conservative credentials after the official nomination.

Until then, McCain’s advisors are ensuring Bush stays far away from the candidate. They won’t be seen together during much of the campaign, The New York Times reported on Monday. The current president could push away the independents and moderate Democrats that McCain needs. The approval rating among that group is virtually nonexistent. But someone needs to replace President Bush in grappling for conservative votes. Enter the father.

The question is, does the former president have enough sway to ignite a group whose approval of his son is declining?