Kim Min-seok, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, criticized fellow candidate Jeong Cheong-rae on August 12, stating, "In a situation where internal and external crises are beginning, Jeong lacks the capability to navigate through this. The relationship between the party and the government will also be shaken." He also noted that the overall trend of the party convention has entered a "stable lead phase."
During an appearance on the YouTube channel "Kim Eo-jun's Humility is Difficult News Factory," Kim expressed concerns about Jeong's ability to serve as party leader, saying, "If Jeong is re-elected as party leader, it will be difficult for him to support the Lee Jae-myung government."
Kim emphasized that this is a crucial time with four years remaining in President Lee's term, asserting, "Jeong will not be able to support a smooth relationship between the party and the government, and President Lee's approval ratings will decline." He pointed out the recent downward trend in President Lee's approval ratings, stating, "I can provide stable support for President Lee's governance. As party leader, I will create a virtuous cycle that raises both the government's approval ratings and the party's support."
Additionally, Kim commented on the ongoing regional primaries that began on August 1, stating, "The overall flow remains stable in our favor," and predicted, "If we win in Honam and the metropolitan area this weekend, I believe we can win decisively." He added, "The ultimate goal is to win first place without preference voting," explaining that the likelihood of securing a majority of votes to win the party convention has increased.
When asked about his relationship with Jeong amid the heated party convention, Kim replied, "Emotional issues with Jeong will be resolved the next day." However, when questioned whether he would assign Jeong a party position if he becomes the leader, he stated, "It would be appropriate for Jeong, as a former leader, to take on an individual role such as a senior advisor."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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