Taiwan politician advises mayoral hopeful to learn from rivals

Former administrative official Chang Ching-sen has urged Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang to broaden his political horizons by seeking counsel from a diverse range of former city leaders. Chang suggested that Shen, who has already consulted with former President Tsai Ing-wen, could potentially emulate Tsai's success and become a "male version of Tsai Ing-wen" due to their stylistic similarities.

“

If I were Shen Po-yang, I would not only consult Chen Shui-bian, but also Jaw Shau-kong, Huang Ta-chou, and even Ma Ying-jeou, Hau Lung-pin, and Ko Wen-je.

Chang's advice extends beyond Tsai, encouraging Shen to learn from figures across the political spectrum. He specifically recommended consulting with former Taipei mayors such as Chen Shui-bian, Jaw Shau-kong, and Huang Ta-chou, noting that understanding their distinct perspectives from the 1994 mayoral race would be invaluable. Chang believes Shen should also engage with other former mayors like Ma Ying-jeou, Hau Lung-pin, and Ko Wen-je to gain a comprehensive understanding of Taipei's political landscape.

Emphasizing the need for strategic thinking, Chang cautioned Shen against relying solely on campaign staff's tactical planning. He stressed that as a less-favored candidate, Shen requires strong strategic capabilities, drawing parallels to Chen Shui-bian's ability to strategize and break through challenges. Chang also advised Shen to extend a friendly hand to Kuomintang supporters to understand their views on him and identify potential weaknesses in incumbent Mayor Chiang Wan-an's campaign.

“

Chiang Wan-an is actually not that strong.

Chang reiterated his earlier assertion that Chiang Wan-an is "not that strong," observing that while Chiang doesn't provoke strong negative reactions, he also doesn't elicit enthusiastic support. Chang believes Shen has an opportunity to challenge Chiang, but it requires him to "go out, listen more, see more, learn more, and even learn from opponents." He concluded by stating that the fastest way for a politician to grow is to step outside their comfort zone and avoid being isolated within their own political circles.

“

Go out. Listen more, see more, learn more, and even learn from opponents. Shen Po-yang has a chance, Shen Po-yang, go for it!