Poll shows Su Chiao-hui overtakes Li Chih-chiang; analyst explains her four key moves

New Taipei mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui has surged ahead of her opponent, Li Chih-chiang, in a recent poll, a turnaround attributed to a combination of her opponent's stumbles and her own persistent campaign efforts. Media personality Chan Ling-yu observed that Su Chiao-hui's strategy involved diligently visiting all 29 districts of New Taipei, engaging with constituents in markets, temples, and community centers, a method described as "slow and steady."

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This poll reversal was partly due to Li Chih-chiang's own missteps, and partly due to Su Chiao-hui's efforts over the past six months.

Chan noted that Su Chiao-hui strategically avoided direct confrontation with Li Chih-chiang, allowing him to become embroiled in controversies such as the 307 bus incident and housing allegations. By contrast, Su Chiao-hui maintained a focus on presenting her policy proposals, effectively using her opponent's missteps to elevate her own standing.

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This way of campaigning is very slow, meaning there are no shortcuts, but votes are gained one by one.

Furthermore, Su Chiao-hui successfully transformed her "second-generation politician" image into an advantage. With nearly a decade as a legislator for the Shulin and Yingge districts, she has a solid record of legislative work and policy initiatives. This has allowed her to leverage her father, Su Tseng-chang's, organizational resources while establishing her own public presence, securing both substantive and public recognition.

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She dared to wait. Her opponent Li Chih-chiang is the most popular deputy mayor in Taiwan. Su Chiao-hui did not confront Li Chih-chiang head-on or rush to attack him, letting Li Chih-chiang speak for himself.

Her image also presents a stark contrast to Li Chih-chiang's perceived old-fashioned approach. Su Chiao-hui's youth, clear communication, and growing online presence resonate with New Taipei's younger demographic, including first-time voters. This generational contrast, particularly in light of recent public transport controversies, positions Su Chiao-hui as the more modern and appealing candidate.

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This is called using the opponent's mistakes to elevate one's own standing.