John McCain Watch: Bobby Jindal is Out as Vice President

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal said Wednesday he will not run for vice president on the GOP ticket, making him among a growing number of those pulling themselves out of the race.

Jindal’s comments come as speculation is swirling that John McCain might announce his running mate choice imminently, as a way to draw attention away from Barack Obama’s high-profile overseas trip.

The Louisiana governor told “FOX & Friends” that he’d be “surprised” if the McCain campaign came down with a decision this week. And he threw water on the buzz about his own chances.

“Let me be clear: I have said in every private and public conversation, I’ve got the job that I want. And I’ll say again on air: I’m not going to be the vice presidential nominee or vice president. I’m going to help Senator McCain get elected, as governor of Louisiana,” Jindal said.

“I look forward to continuing to be governor of Louisiana. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to improve our state. We’ve cut six taxes but we’ve got a lot more work to do right here in Louisiana. … I’ve never talked to the senator about the vice presidency or his thoughts on selecting the vice president.”

Jindal will be considered a serious contender for the Presidency in 2016.