Kaohsiung's mayor shut down talk of his own presidential bid, a boost for President Lai Ching-te as Taiwan heads into a heated election season.

• Asked in the city council who his running mate would be if he ran for president in 2028, Chen Chi-mai said flatly he will not run and will back Lai Ching-te instead.
• The question came from a KMT councilor during his final city report, wrapped in praise for his high approval ratings — over 80% by both parties' counts.
• Kaohsiung's tourism numbers lead Taiwan's six big cities on hotel revenue, restaurant sales, and foreign visitor spending, strengthening his record as he leaves office.
• Registration has opened for the 2026 local elections, with New Taipei City shaping up as the biggest fight and Changhua, Chiayi, and Yilan leaning green.
• Recent favorability polling puts former President Tsai Ing-wen first, Chen second, and Lai fourth, with Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an the strongest opposition figure.

Outlook: The 2026 local races now take center stage, with Kaohsiung and New Taipei the contests to watch before any 2028 jockeying begins.