Earthquake Survivor Rides 50km to Support Mayoral Candidate, Citing Gratitude
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A former resident whose home was destroyed in the 921 earthquake rode 50 kilometers to support a political candidate.
- The resident expressed gratitude for the candidate's help in rebuilding their home.
- The candidate pledged to address citizens' issues and focus on infrastructure development if elected mayor.
A poignant display of gratitude unfolded as a former resident, whose home was destroyed in the devastating 921 earthquake, rode over 50 kilometers to support New Taipei City mayoral candidate Lee Chuan-chi. The resident traveled from Taishan District to Wanli District to attend a campaign event, moved by Lee's past assistance in rebuilding their home when he served in Taipei County, now New Taipei City.
Lee Chuan-chi, who is running on the Kuomintang ticket, shared his emotional response to the gesture during the establishment assembly of the "New Taipei City Women for Chuan Support Group" on August 25. "To have someone ride from Taishan to Xizhi and Wanli just to support me deeply touched me," Lee stated. He pledged that if elected mayor, he would remain true to his principles, address citizens' concerns, and prioritize development.
During the event, Lee outlined several policy proposals aimed at supporting women and families, including enhanced childcare services. He also spoke about his vision for economic development, particularly focusing on creating an "AI high-tech corridor." This ambitious plan involves extending the MRT system beyond Dihua Street across the Tamsui River to connect Sanchong's Second Administrative Center and Xinzhuang, creating a new east-west transit line similar to the Bannan Line to alleviate congestion on existing routes.
Furthermore, Lee addressed other infrastructure projects, such as the Zhonghe Guangfu Line, vowing to work with KMT city councilors and candidates to advance hardware construction in the region.
To have someone ride from Taishan to Xizhi and Wanli just to support me deeply touched me.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.