Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen showed her support for Eric Chu’s leadership of the Kuomintang (KMT) on Sunday. This came just weeks before the party’s chair election scheduled for October 18. Both politicians appeared together on stage at a rally in Taichung opposing the recall of Legislator Yang Chiung-ying, which will take place on August 23.
During the rally, Lu Shiow-yen praised Eric Chu’s leadership, saying, “Mama gives you a like,” in a light-hearted tone. Her public endorsement highlights the growing attention on Chu’s role as KMT party chair since 2021. She acknowledged the progress and stability he brought to the party under his guidance.
Despite being a strong contender herself for the KMT chair position, Lu has recently hinted that she might not run. Instead, she may focus on completing her second term as Taichung mayor. This decision adds uncertainty about who will take over the party’s helm. Meanwhile, rumors suggest that factions within the KMT may pressure Eric Chu to remain chair if no strong candidate steps forward.
The party is set to open registration for the chair election in early September. Pressure is mounting on Lu Shiow-yen to either enter the race or clarify her support for a candidate. Party insiders expect her to make a clear statement by the end of Saturday, after the recall vote concludes.
Besides Lu and Eric Chu, the current declared candidates for party chair include KMT Central Standing Committee member Sun Chien-ping, Sun Yat-sen School President Chang Ya-chung, and former Changhua County Magistrate Cho Po-yuan. The winner will lead the party into the 2026 municipal elections.
Overall, Lu Shiow-yen’s public endorsement of Eric Chu’s leadership signals unity within the KMT as it prepares for a critical election. Her support could influence undecided voters and shape the party’s direction ahead. As the party chair race heats up, Eric Chu’s leadership remains a key factor in KMT’s future success.
