Former Legislator Lee Chen-hsiu Announces Run for Zhubei Mayor, Denies Targeting Political Rival

Lee Chen-hsiu, a former legislator for the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), has officially declared her candidacy for the Zhubei mayoral election, running as an independent. This move follows her expulsion from the TPP in April, which also cost her legislative qualifications. Her announcement has fueled speculation that she is directly challenging TPP Chairman Huang Kuo-chang, particularly as coalition talks between the KMT and TPP for the Zhubei mayoral race remain stalled.

However, Lee firmly dismissed any notion that her decision was influenced by Huang Kuo-chang. During an interview, she stated, "I haven't considered him at all." She explained that she had previously expressed her willingness to run for Zhubei mayor within the party and decided to proceed as an independent after failing to secure the party's nomination. Lee also mentioned informing former TPP chairman Ko Wen-je of her decision, believing her lack of party baggage makes her the ideal candidate to implement new political ideals.

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I haven't considered him at all.

Lee, who has resided in Zhubei for 13 years, expressed confidence in her electoral prospects. She described Zhubei as a unique city with a highly educated and affluent population, many of whom are new residents. She believes these voters tend to prioritize candidates over party affiliation. As a "Zhubei mother," Lee feels she better understands the needs of women and children compared to male candidates. Her extensive grassroots campaigning, visiting local temples and communities, has garnered significant support from residents, bolstering her assessment of her chances.

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If there is no candidate for Zhubei mayor, I can always run.

When questioned about potentially targeting Huang Kuo-chang with her candidacy, Lee laughed, reiterating that he was not a factor in her decision. She clarified that her departure from the legislature was to focus on her master's thesis, and her mayoral campaign preparations began only after its completion. She asserted that her run is part of "God's best plan." Lee also distanced herself from the TPP's Zhubei mayoral candidate, Chiu Chen-yuan, stating that Chiu's electoral prospects are Huang Kuo-chang's concern, not hers.

Lee's eligibility to run has become a subject of public discussion. She was initially elected as a TPP at-large legislator in February but faced scrutiny over dual nationality issues and accusations of reporting former TPP legislator-turned-mayor Koanna Kao for alleged corruption. These controversies led to her expulsion from the party and loss of her legislative seat. Despite these challenges, Lee has announced her platform and opened a political donation account, signaling her serious commitment to the mayoral race.

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This is God's best plan.