The Democratic Party announced on June 8 that it has reached a consensus to hold its leadership election on August 17. However, regarding the potential resignation of party leader Jeong Cheong-rae, who is expected to seek re-election, the party stated that there are no specific regulations in its rules concerning a resignation deadline.
During a press conference at the National Assembly, Secretary General Jo Seung-rae remarked, "President Lee Jae-myung resigned before the formation of the election preparation committee during his tenure as party leader to seek re-election. It is likely that a similar process will occur this time."
Jo also confirmed that there will be no by-election for Supreme Council member Lee Un-joo, who expressed her intention to resign following the party's poor performance in the June 3 local elections. He explained, "Since there are only two months left in her term, the position will remain vacant."
In response to criticism within the party regarding Lee's resignation, Jo stated, "The election process revealed that various voices could not unify, leading to disappointing results."
He emphasized the importance of accurately diagnosing the factors behind the election defeat rather than assigning blame to Jeong Cheong-rae's leadership, saying, "It is much more important to identify the various causes of defeat and develop alternatives."
Jo added that the party will establish an evaluation committee for the recent election and will engage in a thorough discussion to formulate alternatives during the remaining two months leading up to the leadership election.
Meanwhile, potential candidates for the next party leader include Jeong Cheong-rae, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, and former leader Song Young-gil.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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