Obscured by a media storm that descending on California for the recall election, which resulted in the election of Austrian immigrant and Hollywood movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bobby Jindal's campaign has been relatively quiet. Jindal, the son of an Indian immigrant, finished first in an open primary for Louisiana governor earlier this month, pulling in 33 percent of the vote. Since none of the 17 candidates received more than 50 percent of the vote in the primary, the top two candidates – Jindal and Lt. Governor Kathleen Blanco – advance to a Nov. 15 runoff election.

Ethnicity and gender have been notable issues in the campaign, as both candidates could be considered minorities. While Jindal is an Indian-American, Blanco is a Cajun, a native of the former French colony, and she would be the first woman elected Governor of Louisiana if she wins. Political research groups say both candidates would make history, because of their ethnic backgrounds. Almost 70 percent of the electorate is white Protestant. Jindal, a conservative Republican, received very little support from black voters, who make up about 30 percent of the electorate. Polling data shows white male voters heavily favor Jindal, while white female voters are evenly split between the two candidates.

Jindal, 32, is a former Assistant Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, and his campaign has emphasized his strong ties to the Bush Administration. Contrary to misconceptions, Jindal is not an immigrant; he was born and raised in Baton Rouge.

Blanco, 60, completes her second term as Lieutenant Governor at the end of this year. She has worked in the public sector for 20 years, as State Legislator, Public Service Commissioner and Public Service Commission Chairman.