On the final candidate selection day of the People Power Party's first cut-off, Ahn Cheol-soo and Na Kyung-won are focusing on appealing to voters. With Kim Moon-soo, Han Dong-hoon, and Hong Joon-pyo as leading candidates, a fierce competition is underway for the remaining spot (4th place).
The People Power Party plans to narrow down four candidates to advance to the second round of the primary through a 100% national public opinion poll this afternoon. The first round of the primary will be conducted targeting the supporters of the People Power Party and the undecided voters by applying a reverse selection prevention clause to exclude supporters of other parties.
Candidate Ahn has set his last schedule before the cut-off to focus on 'delivering his message.'
He filled all official schedules with radio appearances, emphasizing on Channel A that he had formed a surprise candidate unification with former President Yoon Suk-yeol during the last presidential election. He appealed by saying, "The only thought that moved me at that time was the responsibility to 'stop Lee Jae-myung, who is facing criminal allegations.'"
He also emphasized that he is 'the science president.' This is interpreted as an attempt to attract the centrist voters who are tired of candidates from legal backgrounds.
Ahn noted, "The entire world is caught up in self-interest. How we survive (the issue) is at stake in this presidential election amid serious tariff issues," emphasizing that "to solve this, we must possess science and technology."
He also did not forget to take care of the 'homebodies.' With the reverse selection prevention clause applied in this primary, it is virtually unavoidable that the wishes of party members will be significantly reflected.
Following his visit to a traditional market in Daegu the previous day, he appeared on Daegu regional broadcasting (KBS) radio on the morning of that day. He mentioned that his home is in Gyeongju Yeongju, saying, "There are clans in Andong and Yecheon, so I often come to see the elderly." He also expressed, "I volunteered in medical services in Daegu during the COVID-19 pandemic."
He also mentioned that he intends to solve regional development issues. He stated, "I support funding for airport construction projects that will influence the next 50 years," adding that "I believe public funds should be managed thoroughly for their commercial viability."
However, even before the cut-off results were announced, there was some turmoil as the head of the campaign's public relations department and the head of the promotion team resigned. Ahn's camp official explained, "Although the public relations chief has resigned, they are still working by preparing various promotional materials while receiving external support."
In contrast, Na held a press conference regarding pledges related to the Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam regions, aiming to solidify support from traditional voter bases. Originally, she planned to visit the area directly, visiting traditional markets and meeting with Busan Mayor Park Hyung-joon and Ulsan Mayor Kim Du-gyeom, but canceled due to worsening weather.
Instead, through the press conference, she promised to establish a super-region transportation network and create a fund worth 30 trillion won for the success of the 'Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam mega city.' Busan is progressing with the development of the Gadeokdo new airport and port, while Ulsan plans to promote economic revitalization centered around shipbuilding and nuclear power projects.
The Gyeongnam region plans to be designated as a special economic free zone, introducing a blockchain-based innovative financial system to enhance digital competitiveness. It was also stated that other underdeveloped areas would be designated as opportunity development special zones to achieve balanced development.
The two candidates also continued their 'out-of-the-ring nerve warfare.'
Na pointed out during a BBS radio program on that day, "Ahn joined our party late. While it may be an advantage in showing the wide spectrum of our party, he has wandered through various parties."
In response, Ahn stated through his Facebook, "Some call me 'cuckoo.' If this call results in a regime change, that's good. If I can stop Lee Jae-myung, I would gladly take on any role."
In the political arena, there are expectations that Na will have an edge due to her party base and recognition, as well as the consolidation of conservative voters. However, some analyses suggest that if the members' intent to distance themselves from the martial law issue is reflected, Ahn might reverse the situation.