TAIPEI (TVBS News) — With the 2024 presidential election registration commencing next week, there's growing speculation about a potential alliance within the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
Rumors have emerged that DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te might team up with Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan's representative to the U.S., as his running mate, especially after recent renovations at a DPP office sparked curiosity.
The renovation work, which started in early November on the 8th floor of the DPP central committee's building, is rumored to be for accommodating Hsiao's campaign needs as Lai's potential vice-presidential candidate.
Further fueling the rumors is speculation that Hung Yao-fu, a key figure in mobilizing young social activists and known for his role in the DPP's victories in 2016 and 2020, might return to Taiwan to support Hsiao's campaign.
However, a seasoned party staffer with experience in past elections has dismissed these rumors. The staffer emphasized that Lai's running mate would not have an independent campaign strategy, as the election is primarily focused on the presidential candidates.
The vice-presidential candidate's team usually comprises a director, deputy director, news professionals, and management staff, handling routine administrative tasks rather than strategic campaigning.
Additionally, Hsu Chia-hua, previously the director of Hsiao's legislative office and a member of the DPP's international affairs department, is currently abroad but is also being considered as a potential campaign team member for Lai's running mate.
