DPP legislator-elect Lin Ching-yi took her oath of office on Monday, one week after winning Taichung’s second constituency in a by-election. At her swearing-in ceremony, she paid an emotional tribute to her parents, who were there in the audience. She said that her mission as a lawmaker was to look after society’s most vulnerable.

DPP lawmaker Lin Ching-yi returned for her second term at the legislature on Monday. Her swearing-in was witnessed by Freddy Lim, who recently survived a recall attempt. The DPP caucus sent flowers to welcome their latest member.

Lin Ching-yi
DPP lawmaker
I am here at the Legislative Yuan again. During my first term, I was a legislator-at-large. What I represented was the professionalism of a group. That’s very different from being an elected legislator. How to care for the greatest number of people who are vulnerable and in need – that is the most important task I must tackle next.

On the day of her return, Lin Ching-yi was greeted by members of her party. Her parents made the trip up to Taipei, to see her take up the mantle and represent the people.

Lin Ching-yi
DPP lawmaker
I want to thank them for being so understanding of me and my chaotic career shifts. During my time on the campaign trail in Taichung’s second constituency, I saw a great many voters, saw many aunties and sisters. I feel that the way they looked at me is the way that my parents look at me.

The manager of her legislative campaign was former Taichung Mayor Lin Chia-lung. In the wake of her election success, rumors are swirling that he’ll run again for Taichung mayor. He addressed the rumors on Monday.

Lin Chia-lung
Former Taichung mayor
If there is a suitable candidate who can unite everyone, then I will do everything in my power to provide support. That is to say, I will absolutely be in the campaign, but the campaign does not have to center on me.

When asked if he’d run for Taichung mayor, Lin Chia-lung said he’d give his full support to a suitable candidate. Following his campaign coup for Lin Ching-yi, there has also been talk of him running for office in greater Taipei.

Lin Chia-lung
Former Taichung mayor
I have already served as the mayor of a municipality. That was a very good life experience and growth opportunity for me. Unless there is a very compelling reason for me to run, I will duly serve my role on the campaign committee and lift up talent within the DPP.

Asked if he’ll run in greater Taipei, Lin Chia-lung chose his words with care, leaving some room for interpretation.