KMT-TPP Alliance in Taichung? Ko-chang Huang Cites Smooth Communication, Johnson Chiang Camp Says There's Room for Cooperation

At the office unveiling for Liu Chin-yu, a Taiwan People's Party (TPP) candidate for Taichung city councilor in the Xitun District, Kuomintang (KMT) Taichung mayoral candidate Johnny Chiang sent a flower basket, raising questions about a potential 'Blue-White' (KMT-TPP) alliance in the upcoming election. TPP Chairman Ko-chang Huang stated that the local party chapter and Johnny Chiang have smooth communication channels. The Chiang camp responded by saying there is room for cooperation. Huang attended the unveiling today. Former TPP legislator Tsai Pi-ju and several other TPP key figures were also present. The flower basket from KMT mayoral candidate and Legislative Yuan Vice President Johnny Chiang prompted media inquiries about a potential Blue-White alliance. Huang stated that the party's cooperation agreement with the KMT is very clear. Regarding the pace and strategy for the Taichung election, he said the TPP has its own autonomy, and further cooperation with Chiang would be handled through what he expects to be 'very smooth communication' between TPP Taichung chapter head Chen Ching-lung and Chiang, as both are from Fengyuan. In response, Johnny Chiang's office stated in a press release that Taichung is at a golden and critical period of development. From upgrading tech industries and constructing transportation networks to optimizing the environment for raising families, cross-party cooperation is needed. The cooperative understanding mentioned by Huang signifies a shared hope and vision for Taichung's future. The release added that as long as it benefits the citizens, there is room for cooperation with the TPP on policies, local construction, and other levels. Regarding former TPP spokesperson Yang Pao-chen's interest in running in Taichung, she was absent from the 'TPP Taichung Team' event on the 16th, which drew criticism from Taichung City Councilor Chiang Ho-shu. TPP Taichung Chairman Chen Ching-lung said today that based on his political experience, he advised Yang not to attend, and that Chiang Ho-shu represents the opinions of supporters, and both views are respected. When asked if the TPP has decided not to nominate Yang for the Taichung City Council election, Huang only said he hoped the focus would remain on today's main figure, Liu Chin-yu. Liu herself said that anyone willing to serve the neighborhoods is welcome to join the TPP Taichung team.