Lu Hsiu-yen's 2028 Move Remains a Mystery! Cheng Chao-hsin Hints Again, Personally Explains Meaning of 'Won't Disappoint Everyone'

The 2028 presidential election is already attracting early attention, and Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen’s post-tenure plans have become a key focus in Taiwan’s political arena. During an exclusive interview on Storm Media’s program 'Xia Ban Han Ni Liao,' Taichung Deputy Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin was asked whether he would remain in Taichung or follow Lu into the 2028 race. Once again, he left clues without confirmation, stressing, 'No matter our position, our care for Taichung will never change,' and urging the public to 'give us a little more time.'

When host Huang Wei-han pressed further—'Will we know the answer when the time comes?'—Cheng responded, 'We’ve said it before: we won’t disappoint everyone.' When directly questioned if this amounted to an announcement of Lu Hsiu-yen’s 2028 presidential bid, Cheng still refrained from confirming, instead emphasizing, 'Right now, the most important battlefield remains 2026.'

Why has Lu remained cautious about 2028? Cheng explained that Lu wants to avoid overshadowing the 2026 candidates, stating, 'The 2026 stage must belong to those running.' This year’s elections are meant to test local candidates, and premature focus on 2028 could raise questions about whether voters are judging mayors or anticipating a presidential race.

He cited Lu’s oft-repeated phrase, 'There must be a 6 before there can be an 8,' meaning the KMT should first secure strong results in the 2026 local elections to build momentum for a 2028 national victory. He noted that figures like Lu and Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an are actively supporting campaigns across counties whenever possible.

What does 'won’t disappoint everyone' mean? Cheng said they’ve heard widespread public voices, including questions about why Lu didn’t run for KMT chairperson. 'The people’s voices are broad, diverse, and sincere. Our response is honest—so we won’t let them down.' At one point, Cheng even sang a Christmas carol, adding to the speculation.

On blue-white cooperation, Cheng highlighted that the TPP held its party anniversary in Taichung, with Lu attending—an act symbolizing growing trust and shared goals. 'Taichung is the nation’s first demonstration zone for blue-white collaboration, and this direction and status will not change,' he affirmed. As for when the 2028 plan will be revealed, his reply remained unchanged: 'Please give us a little more time.'

More exclusive reports from Storm Media: · Lin Jing-yi fires back at Lu Hsiu-yen: 'Are crude oil snacks really never tiring?' Shows refining process chart in support of Taisugar: 'But did Taichung inspect Zhonglian’s ingredients?' · Is the KMT’s 2028 lineup reshuffling? Not just Lu and Han—scholars name 'this heavyweight': 'Should run if three conditions are met' · Blue camp’s two rising stars sparking 'chemistry'? Huang Yang-ming reveals Chiang Wan-an’s true role: 'To save Lu Hsiu-yen in 2028'