New Taipei Election Heats Up as 48 Candidates Register in One Day

The registration process for the 9‑in‑1 local public office elections is underway. On the third day of registration, a significant influx of candidates arrived, with up to 48 people completing the paperwork that day and intensifying the campaign atmosphere. Among the many incumbent councilors and new faces, incumbent Kuomintang New Taipei City councilor Cai Shujun and the cross‑party councilor father‑son duo Chen Mingyi and Chen Shixuan each appeared in unique ways—Cai Shujun by saving campaign funds for public welfare, and the father‑son pair by showcasing family legacy—becoming the focus of the day’s campaign. These actions not only demonstrate a shift in campaign strategy but also reflect new thinking in local political ecology regarding social image and resource utilization.

When Cai Shujun completed her registration, she simultaneously announced a notable decision: she would not establish a large campaign headquarters for her re‑election bid, nor hold a grand inauguration ceremony. Cai explained that traditional campaign headquarters inaugurations often require mobilizing large amounts of manpower and material resources, and spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on stage setup, audio equipment, and banquet arrangements—expenses that are largely short‑term consumables. She decided to donate the hundreds of thousands of dollars saved to public welfare, investing in local disadvantaged care and emergency relief. This direct return of resources to constituents echoes voters’ expectations for “election slimming” in recent years and demonstrates her confidence earned through years of solid service.

Another highlight that day was the rare father‑son duo in politics registering together. Incumbent Kuomintang New Taipei City councilor Chen Mingyi and his son, People’s Party representative Chen Shixuan, appeared at the same time during registration. They not only completed the paperwork together but also deliberately wore matching outfits,