TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) expressed support for KMT party chair Eric Chu (朱立倫) on Sunday, weeks ahead of an election to select a new chair on Oct. 18. 

The two politicians appeared on stage together at a rally in Taichung to oppose the recall targeting Legislator Yang Chiung-ying (楊瓊瓔) scheduled for Aug. 23. During the event, Lu praised Chu’s leadership of the party, and said jokingly “Mama gives you a like,” reported UDN.

As a popular mayor, Lu is considered both a strong contender for the position of KMT party chair, and as a potential presidential candidate in 2028. However, in recent weeks, there have been reports that Lu may not enter the race for KMT chair, opting instead to focus on finishing her second term as mayor. 

On Sunday, Lu praised Chu’s achievements as party chair, a post he has held since 2021. Chu previously pledged to step down before October, however there are rumors factions in the party may compel him to try and maintain his position if Lu or another suitable candidate does not step forward. 

Registration for the party chair election is set to open in early September. 

Pressure is reportedly mounting on Lu to step into the ring or to clarify which candidate she will support. Party insiders are reportedly calling on Lu make a definitive statement by Saturday evening after the recall elections are finished, per UDN.

Once a new chair is elected, the KMT will begin focusing its energies on Taiwan’s municipal elections slated for November 2026. 

The current declared candidates vying for party chair include KMT Central Standing Committee member Sun Chien-ping (孫健萍), Sun Yat-sen School President Chang Ya-chung (張亞中), and former Changhua County Magistrate Cho Po-yuan (卓伯源).