New Taipei City mayoral race intensifies between KMT and DPP candidates

The mayoral race in New Taipei City is intensifying as candidates from the Kuomintang (KMT) and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) engage in active campaigning. KMT candidate Lee Sze-chuan has been conducting grassroots visits, receiving support from local vendors in Shulin. Former Mayor Hou Yu-ih has endorsed Lee, urging citizens to elect a leader who focuses on practical results rather than rhetoric. Lee has proposed expanding the city's rail network and building the Loushe Bridge to connect high-tech industries, including NVIDIA, to various districts to foster an AI industrial corridor.

DPP candidate Su Chiao-hui has countered these claims by highlighting her track record in securing central government resources for local infrastructure, such as the Wandan-Shulin MRT line and various station improvements. She emphasized her commitment to continuing social welfare policies. Supporting Su is Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung, who praised her ability to coordinate between central and local governments. Lin noted that Su's past involvement in policy ideas, such as the TPASS transportation pass, has already benefited citizens, and he expressed hope that she would lead New Taipei toward greater international connectivity and urban diplomacy.