TAOYUAN (TVBS News) — Taoyuan is one of the most heated battlegrounds in the 2022 Taiwan local elections. In recent years, the city has become the top residential choice for young couples and families. People have taken advantage of commuting from Taoyuan since housing prices are skyrocketing in Taipei and New Taipei City.
Taoyuan also attracts many workers as it is the largest industrial city in Taiwan. There is, therefore, little wonder that voters are most concerned about the new mayor's plans for better transportation and affordable housing.
This year, there are four candidates running for mayor: Cheng Yun-peng (鄭運鵬), Simon Chang (張善政), Lai Hsiang-ling (賴香伶), and Cheng Pao-ching (鄭寶清).
Legislator Cheng Yun-peng is representing the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Former Taiwan premier Simon Chang is from the opposition Kuomintang (KMT). Legislator Lai Hsiang-ling is running for the opposition Taiwan People's Party (TPP). And, former DPP lawmaker Cheng Pao-ching is running as an independent.
The ruling DPP has ruled over Taoyuan for the past eight years. This election is crucial for the party after more than 2 years of the pandemic. It is also a test for the incumbent mayor Cheng Wen-tsan. As he is seen as a potential candidate in the 2024 presidential election.
Cheng emphasized transportation, housing projects, and social welfare during his time in office. If the DPP succeeds in winning the Taoyuan area, the new mayor will be able to build on the agenda that Cheng established. Then, Cheng might get a better chance to win in the primaries.
The opposition parties have proposed similar plans as well. Yet, they argue that the previous administration did not deliver on its promises. They are also laying out plans for public safety, labor-related issues, and building a smart city.
If the ruling party's candidate fails in their bid, the opposition parties might be able to give a different direction, which may counter the DPP's current plans for Taoyuan.
But what do you think? Have you made up your mind about your favorite candidate? Don't forget to vote on Saturday, Nov. 26, for the 9-in-1 elections and referendum.
You can follow Jamie Lin Pinzon on Twitter: @JamiePinzon
