Campaigning in New Hampshire, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal did the requisite Elm Street stroll with Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas as he works to build his name recognition among a crowded field of Republican presidential candidates- even as he focuses his energies on the Democrats.
"President Obama and Secretary Clinton are trying to turn the American dream into the European nightmare. I think we are on a path towards socialism. At least Bernie Sanders is honest about it," Jindal began.
Jindal's visit follows the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that allows same-sex couples the right to marry nationwide. He strongly disagrees with the decision.
In my one on one interview, I asked Jindal if New Hampshire or New England would be a hard sell for him since he is in a part of the country that leans socially liberal.
"Voters may not agree with us 100 percent of the time, but they want us to be honest and authentic with them," Jindal responded. "Look, our nominee is going to be for traditional marriage and pro life. All the candidates of taking that for you so I think tone matters."
I asked Jindal if he thought it was possible to "put the genie back in the bottle" on that issue.
"There are federal efforts to restore marriage between a man and a woman. I understand the polls are going the other way and I get that. Unlike President Obama or Secretary Clinton, my views on this or not involving with the polls. They are informed by faith," Jindal said.
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On immigration, I asked Jindal if he agrees with Donald Trump's recent inflammatory statements regarding immigrants from Mexico.
"I disagree with his language. I don't see people as members of ethnic groups or economic groups. We have to see people as individuals. I do think we need to secure the border," Jindal said.
And what is Jindal's position on the confederate flag?
"I support Nicky Haley. I support Tim Scott, the leaders in South Carolina, the decision they made, their ability and right to make that decision I support and agree with," Jindal explained.
The latest polls show Governor Jindal ranks in the low single digits in New Hampshire, but he is confident, that as the people get to know him, those numbers will rise.
