President's 'Sea Otter' Slip: Candidate Says Otters Are Just Cute

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te recently made a verbal slip, referring to Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) New Taipei City candidate Su Chiao-hui as "Sea Otter Mama" instead of her established nickname, "Water Otter Mama." The incident occurred during a ceremony for the New Taipei City Chiayi Association on June 6.

Su Chiao-hui, who hosts the podcast "Water Otter Mama's" Story Time, responded to the president's gaffe with good humor. She pointed out that water otters, sea otters, and even beavers are often mistaken for one another due to their similar furry appearances. "They are all furry and very cute," she remarked, adding that she sometimes has trouble distinguishing them herself, especially by their noses and mouths.

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They are all furry and very cute. Sometimes when looking at their noses and mouths, I also have trouble distinguishing them.

This wasn't the first time the president and Su's "Water Otter Mama" persona have intersected. Lai had previously appeared as a guest on her podcast, reading stories to children. According to Su, the children were delighted to hear stories from "Uncle Ah-Teh," as they affectionately called the president, and praised his storytelling abilities.

Su made these comments while attending a table tennis competition at the Yonghe District Elderly Association and campaigning in the Fuhuo Bridge market area. The lighthearted exchange highlights a moment of public engagement, with Su interacting warmly with constituents.

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Wow! It's the President! Uncle Ah-Teh can also tell stories, and he tells them quite well!