The race for Taichung mayor is shaping up to be a tough contest between three formidable candidates, each boasting a strong national profile.
But while the contest is a local election, political watchers say the race's outcome is of national importance.
TAIPEI TIMES FILE PHOTO
The city could be the proving ground for the major political parties in the 2004 presidential race. Taichung has become one of the best spots for gauging the true strengths of the four political parties, analysts say.
The strongest candidate to emerge thus far is Jason Hu (
Among the three candidates, Jason Hu presently enjoys the highest approval rating, according to opinion polls.
In addition, his personal charisma makes him popular and his resume boasts experience representing Taiwan in the international arena.
But the seasoned KMT politician does have his obstacles to overcome. Hu thus far hasn't been able to obtain the support of local faction leaders.
Representing the DPP is Legislator Michael Tsai (
Tsai, a member of the New Tide Faction, has also won high approval ratings with his promises to crack down on "black gold" politics.
The lawmaker's membership in the New Tide Faction is also a plus, as the faction enjoys the most influence within the DPP and was a key factor in helping him with his party's nomination.
But while he won the primary battle against Chang, he has yet to win the war.
Chang has decided to run for re-election as an independent, and entry into the race could result in a split vote among DPP voters.
Chang -- a founding member of the DPP -- is preparing to leave the party, making her bid formal.
She also has the support of her father-in-law Chen Tuan-tang (
Still, the advantages of incumbency may be a drawback for Chang. Her family's deep involvement in the city's public affairs has its critics, and may former supporters say it's time for fresh blood.
Although the People First Party has yet to nominate a candidate, the party may announce an entrant later in the race.
In northern Taiwan, starting with Taichung City, then-independent candidate James Soong (
To prevent the KMT and DPP from undermining Soong's strong foothold in Taichung, the party is weighing its chances in the city.
Should the PFP not join the fray, a key factor in deciding the winner could depend on which candidate PFP voters choose to support.
Another factor is the so-called "dump save effect," in which a weak candidate late in the contest gives his support to a stronger candidate, helping him to win the race.
The Contenders:
For the KMT - Jason Hu (胡志強)
1991~1996: Director General of Government Information Office of the Executive Yuan.
1996: Elected to the National Assembly.
1996: Representative of Taiwan to the US.
1997: Minister of Foreign Affair.
For the DPP - Michael Tasi (蔡明憲)
1991: Deputy of the National Assembly
1995 to present: Lawmaker, continually advocated removing gangsters from the Legislative Yuan, criticism primarily aimed at independent lawmaker Lo Fu-chu (羅福助).
Recognized as an expert on national defense matters.
Independent - Chang Wen-ying (張溫鷹)
1979: A former dentist once jailed for performing cosmetic surgery on famous dissident Shih Ming-teh (施明德), then a fugitive due to his part in the Kaohsiung Incident.
1981: Discharged from prison, she resumed her career in dentistry.
1987: Elected National Assembly deputy.
1990: Married and was elected to Taiwan Provincial Assembly.
1998: Elected Taichung City mayor.
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