It’s been a quiet summer for Gov. Bobby Jindal on the national stage — and one political observer says that’s a blessing for Jindal.
The summer was not kind to several national Republicans, most of whom were once thought to be future presidential candidates.
First, former popular Republican governor of Utah, Jon Huntsman, accepted President Barack Obama’s nomination to become the United States Ambassador to China, threatening any plans to run as a Republican in the near future.
Then, Nevada Sen. John Ensign admitted in June to having an affair last year with a female member of his campaign staff.
Weeks later, South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford’s disappearance led to revelations of an affair of his own with a woman from Argentina.
Finally, former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin announced she would resign her position as governor, effective July 26. Palin’s decision, though, did have defenders.
Kirby Goidel, political science and mass communication professor and Senior Public Policy Fellow at the Reilly Center, said by laying low, Jindal’s position has improved by default.
“He’s benefited by not doing himself any harm,” Goidel said.
 
—-Contact Nate Monroe at [email protected]