Jindal Wins Louisiana Race, Becomes First Indian American Governor

Two years later, Jindal made his first attempt at the governorship. He lost to Democrat Kathleen Babineaux Blanco in a runoff, but the race gave him the kind of statewide prominence that none of his lesser-known rivals in this year's contest could boast about. Shortly afterward, in 2004, he ran for the U.S. House from a New Orleans suburb and drew 78 percent of the vote. Last November, he was reelected with 88 percent of the vote.

In this go-round, Jindal essentially cruised through most of the campaign, outspending his rivals with ease. Boasso, who represents St. Bernard Parish, spent nearly $5 million of his own money to try to keep up.

Especially with targeted audiences, Jindal could speak to the Republican base. He professed his opposition to abortion, signaled a willingness to consider the teaching of intelligent design, and discussed the need to cut taxes.

In television ads and other, broader appeals, Jindal focused on his competence and integrity.

"We've got a government that's out of control," he said in his stump speech. "We've got a government that spends our money without any regard. We're in the top five in having the most crooked politicians in America. We're going to change that."

Wayne Parent, a political science professor at LSU and author of the 2006 book "Inside the Carnival: Unmasking Louisiana Politics," said Jindal has benefited from a weak field of contenders and the perception of his intelligence.

"He projects himself as competent and ethical. That seems to resonate," he said.