One year ago, Bobby Jindal was a US representative; five months ago, at 36, he became the youngest governor in the country; today -- or rather this weekend -- he'll join the shortlist of potential running mates for John McCain. If McCain were to choose him, Jindal's meteoric rise would be more astonishing than even Barack Obama's.

Which is why I think Jindal's a long-shot here. He's too young, and whatever "ageism" the Louisiana governor might offset being on the ticket undercuts McCain's central theme of Obama's inexperience. Jindal's presence at McCain's home could very well be just an acknowledgment that Jindal is now a central figure in Republican politics. It could be something more.

Whatever it is, Jindal is winning supporters. Notably, Bill Kristol. His strengths include a first-rate intellect, competence, pro-life, politcal-savvy (winning the governorship of Louisiana as a first-generation immigrant isn't the easiest thing in politics), a great life story, and wonderful anecdotes like delivering his own child. Plus, he's a conservative's conservative. Some think that Jindal can be the new face of the GOP.

But let's remember what launched Obama on the national scene: It was his 2004 convention speech in Boston. Almost immediately Obama's name entered the list of potential candidates. Without that, Obama, who would have won his Senate seat anyway, would almost certainly not be running today.

Jindal, it seems, needs a moment like that. And, wouldn't you know it, there's a convention coming up in just a few short months...