A Chinese-born Taiwanese resident has announced a run for mayor of Zhubei, but Taiwan's rules on when her citizenship clock started may block her from the ballot.

• Li Chen-hsiu declared her candidacy for Zhubei mayor, calling the city her firm choice.
• Taiwan law requires spouses from China to hold citizenship for 10 years before running for public office.
• The Mainland Affairs Council says that clock only starts once someone gives up Chinese household registration and files the proof with immigration authorities.
• Li only handed in that paperwork in 2025, which would leave her years short.
• Election officials, not the council, will make the final call when she registers.

Outlook: Her candidacy will likely be rejected at registration unless officials read the 10-year rule differently.