Political analysts believe the TPP-KMT alliance could play a decisive role in the 2026 New Taipei mayoral election. On Thursday, Formosa Chair Wu Tzu-chia shared his thoughts during an interview with NOWnews. He stated that a united front between the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT) could shut out the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) completely.
Wu explained that the current KMT candidate, Taipei Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-chuan, lacks appeal among younger voters. However, he argued that TPP Chair Huang Kuo-chang could help bridge that gap. According to Wu, a TPP-KMT alliance would bring balance and increase voter coverage across age groups.
While Lee currently leads in the polls, Wu warned the KMT to tread carefully during talks with the TPP. He emphasized that rushed or aggressive negotiations could backfire. Despite the numbers favoring Lee, Wu insisted a smart strategy was still needed.
A recent New Era public opinion survey also revealed some surprising details. The poll showed Lee beating both DPP Legislator Su Chiao-hui and former DPP Secretary-General Lin Yu-chang. Although Huang’s support has grown, he still ranks behind the DPP candidates.
Media commentator Shang I-fu weighed in as well. He pointed out that Huang only leads among voters aged 20 to 29. That statistic came from a survey assuming a TPP-KMT alliance. Shang concluded that Huang’s chances of becoming the joint candidate remain limited.
On Tuesday, Lee officially declared his run for mayor. In response, Huang called for a “fair, transparent, and impartial” candidate selection process.Soochow University Assistant Professor Chang Yuan-hsiang offered another view. He believes Huang joined the race to start larger talks with the KMT. Chang also noted that Huang’s party duties might keep him from fully committing to a campaign.
For the alliance to succeed, Chang suggested that the KMT may need to give up some local seats. This gesture could ensure TPP cooperation and strengthen unity before the 2026 local elections.The road ahead remains uncertain. However, many observers agree that the TPP-KMT alliance could become the key to victory in New Taipei.
