Jung Cheong-rae, a prominent candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, declared on July 13 that he will once again raise the banner of reform as he announces his candidacy for re-election. He appealed for support from party members, stating, "I will protect the success of the Lee administration and stand by President Lee until the end."
During a press conference held at the National Assembly, Jung stated, "Over the past year, I have carried the banner of a strong reformist leader. I will once again become a powerful leader of the party," officially confirming his candidacy for the upcoming convention scheduled for August.
Jung pledged to realize a party that prioritizes the rights of its members and to push for strong reforms if elected. He said, "The party belongs to its members. I will uphold their will and make the Democratic Party a stronger and more democratic organization. I will vigorously pursue uninterrupted and swift reforms, raising the banner of reform once again as a leader."
He also declared his commitment to protecting President Lee throughout his term and dedicating himself to the re-election of the administration, reiterating his relationship with the president. "As I have done until now, I will stand by President Lee as a united team, speaking with one voice. I, Jung Cheong-rae, will be the one who remains loyal to President Lee, practicing the principle of putting the party before personal interests," he said, adding that he would do everything possible for stable governance and the re-election of the administration.
Jung emphasized, "Above all, I have been the closest protector of President Lee. I have fought at the forefront against the suppression of opposition parties and the elimination of political rivals by the Yoon Seok-yeol administration. When the motion to arrest President Lee was passed, I resigned as floor leader to stabilize the party amid the chaos."
He outlined several reform initiatives he completed during his previous term, including the resolution of insurrection, judicial reform, and the introduction of a one-person, one-vote system, while also expressing regret over not consulting party members regarding the merger with the Justice Party. "I regret not conducting a vote among all party members regarding the merger with the Justice Party," he said, adding that if he becomes the party leader, he will seek their opinions through a vote.
Meanwhile, fellow party member Choi Min-hee, a key supporter of Jung, also expressed her intention to run for the Supreme Council, stating in a press release, "I will protect the Democratic Party and be a driving force for reform."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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