Governor Candidate Bobby Jindal - Impressions

Republican candidate for governor Bobby Jindal met with The Times Editorial and Community Boards Wednesday morning. Again, my gut reaction to his strengths and weaknesses:

Jindal was strong on:

- reforming the state’s tainted “corrupt” image. One of his first moves would be a special legislative session to enact reforms
- detailed plan to reform the state’s educational system. Proposes a “Teacher’s Bill of Rights” holding both teachers and students/parents responsible. Also proposes a “dual enrollment” option for students opting for college prep or technical training courses
- push for completion of I-49 as a benefit to the entire state
- tie univerisity course work to local economic strenghts – i.e. LSUS programs to Barksdale AFB Cyber Command Center. Reward universities for accomplishments in this area
- eliminate current business taxes for debt, equipment and utilities. Proposes a detailed plan to make up for lost revenue via other measures. Proposes a long term phase-out of the state income tax

Jindal was weak on:

- tendency to lapse into “politician speak” when listing his accomplishments – “I have done this….I have done that….”

I must admit I was impressed with Mr. Jindal’s knowledge of a wide variety of issues and the ability to offer specific plans to address state problems. His responses were more than “it’s broke, let’s fix it” – my impression was that his comments were thoughtful and well researched.