Rookie Taiwan lawmaker blacklisted by Beijing makes long-shot bid to become Taipei mayor

Puma Shen Pao-yang, a first-term lawmaker who has been blacklisted by Beijing for alleged support of Taiwanese independence, is set to challenge Taipei's popular incumbent mayor in the upcoming local elections. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party's nomination of Shen, a vocal critic of Beijing and a proponent of strengthening Taiwan's security, surprised many observers.

Shen, a former academic, entered politics just two years ago, securing a legislative seat through the party list system. His nomination has raised questions among observers regarding the ruling party's strategy, especially given Taipei's traditional leaning towards the main opposition party, the Kuomintang. The current mayor, Wayne Chiang Wan-an, is considered a rising star within the Kuomintang and a potential future contender for national leadership.

Recent polling data suggests Shen faces a formidable uphill battle. A TVBS survey released in late May revealed that Chiang holds a significant lead, with 58% support compared to Shen's 30%, and 13% undecided. The poll further indicated that Chiang leads across nearly all demographic groups, including younger voters aged 20 to 29, where he garnered 60% support against Shen's 37%.