Albert Barnes Commentary 2 Chronicles 11:22

"And Rehoboam appointed Abijah the son of Maacah to be chief, [even] the prince among his brethren; for [he was minded] to make him king." — 2 Chronicles 11:22 (ASV)

Jeush was probably the oldest of Rehoboam’s sons and, according to the provisions of the Law (Deuteronomy 21:15–17), should have naturally been his heir. But Rehoboam’s affection for Maachah led him to transgress the Law.