Jung Cheong-rae, a former leader of the Democratic Party, announced his candidacy for re-election as party leader on July 14, stating that the ongoing controversy over the preference voting system should not proceed in violation of party rules.
During an appearance on 'Kim Eo-jun's News Factory' that morning, Jung addressed questions about the preference voting system, saying, "If the party convention is held under the current circumstances, there is a high possibility that a nullification lawsuit will be accepted. We should not hold the convention under such risks."
However, he clarified that he does not oppose the preference voting system itself, provided it complies with party rules. "If the potential for violating party rules is eliminated, I will accept any method, whether it be preference voting or runoff voting. I hope the leadership makes a good decision," he said.
Jung also emphasized his connection to President Lee, reiterating his commitment made during his candidacy announcement on July 13, stating, "I will protect President Lee until the end." He noted, "I have a deep relationship with President Lee, having had many conversations even before he became president. I hope this government succeeds. If it does, I will be the one to protect President Lee until the end."
Additionally, Jung continued to engage in a war of words with Kim Min-seok, a former Prime Minister and his rival for the party leadership. In response to Kim's claim that Jung pursued a merger with the Justice Reform Party and engaged in self-serving politics, Jung countered, "Self-serving politics is when someone leaves the party to support a candidate from another party. Our party has achieved numerous legislative successes without any discord between the party and the government."
Meanwhile, Jung appealed for support from party members, stating, "I am a loyal member of the Democratic Party. I will uphold my commitment to President Lee, and I ask party members to support Jung Cheong-rae." He added, "I started my political career in the Democratic Party and plan to end it here. I will walk the path focusing solely on the party's will, so I ask party members to stand by me."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.