After a far too long hiatus, we’re (as in the royal we, referring to me) back.
Today, the New York Times reported that John McCain will begin having meetings with potential running mates at his ranch in Sedona, Arizona. The three people being invited to the ranch to discuss the VP position are Florida governor and Savior doppelganger Charlie Crist, former Massachusetts governor and hair titan Mitt Romney, and Louisiana governor/Republican-version of Barack Obama Bobby Jindal.
Bobby Jindal’s invitation to meet with McCain comes as a mild surprise because he is a relatively fresh face in politics and he is from turtle soup’s home, Louisiana. At 36, Jindal became the youngest governor in the United States earlier this year and he has limited executive experience. However, Jindal’s young age could be a boon for a presidential ticket featuring a sea turtle that Darwin witnessed on his first visits to the Galapagos Islands. In addition, Jindal is capable of drawing the conservative base to McCain. Notably, one of Jindal’s biggest fans (literally and figuratively) is Rush Limbaugh, who has called him the next Ronald Regan.
Another thing to consider with Jindal is race. By nominating an Indian-American for the VP position, the GOP could deflect criticism that it is a collection of stuffy, white men and green turtles. However, many rural swing voters might have a tough time deciding which race they don’t want to vote for: the Blacks who used to do all the work for America domestically or the Indians who currently do all the work for America overseas. With Jindal, it is tough to know whether his race will be an advantage or disadvantage.
McCain has also shown his conservative credentials by failing to meet with any women for the Vice Presidency position.
Turtlewatching - John McCain 