The DPP on Wednesday ratified the nominations of health minister Chen Shih-chung and former transport minister Lin Chia-lung for the mayoral elections in Taipei and New Taipei. Chen, who is a native of Taipei, said if he''s elected mayor, he would put an end to stagnation in Taipei, adding that the city deserves better than what it has. Meanwhile, Lin declared a start to his electoral battle against Hou Yu-ih, who will run for a second term with the KMT.
DPP Chair Tsai Ing-wen announces the party’s mayoral candidates for Taipei and New Taipei, health minister Chen Shih-chung and Ambassador-at-Large Lin Chia-lung.
Tsai Ing-wen
DPP chair
I know that Minister Chen has not enjoyed a good shut-eye for over two years now. But as we usher in a new era, our minister still can’t take a break, because just as we need a commander for epidemic control, we also need one for municipal governance. If we want to achieve great development for the Greater Taipei metropolitan area, we will have to nominate our most capable candidates. That’s why we’ve called on Lin Chia-lung to run for New Taipei mayor. I’ve always believed Chia-lung to be the best choice. Since entering public service, no matter what post he held in the central and local governments, he has always worked in the greater public interest giving his all and everything. The Chen and Lin team in Taipei and New Taipei will surely achieve new heights.
With Chen and Lin near the central government, President Tsai believes the DPP could also win mayoral positions in Keelung and Taoyuan. This will be Chen’s first electoral run, and he seemed a little unlike his usual calm self at CECC press conferences. This time he had a speech prepared in advance.
Chen Shih-chung
DPP Taipei mayoral candidate
Taipei, being the capital city, enjoys the highest level of freedom. But the mayor’s approval ratings have always left much to be desired. Though I’m proud to call Taipei my hometown, I feel pity for it too, because Taipei deserves better.
Lin Chia-lung
DPP New Taipei mayoral candidate
I’d like to thank President Tsai for her trust, even in someone as difficult as me. You’ve still entrusted me with this great responsibility with confidence and patience. Mayor Hou, do accept my invitation to battle.
Lin said he was ready to duel against incumbent Mayor Hou Yu-ih. He also wished a landslide win for Chen, adding that the two would support each other.
Lin Chia-lung
DPP New Taipei mayoral candidate
Actually while we were waiting outside, we hugged and took selfies. There’s only unity, no hard feelings.
Lin and Chen bumped fists in a gesture of unity and cooperation, to win Taipei and New Taipei back for the DPP.
