Cheolmin Jang Proposes Debate on "Chungcheong Integration" to Jongtae Jang and Taejung Heo

"Each Candidate's Alternatives and Vision for the Failed Integration Must Be Verified in Front of the Citizens"

Chulmin Jang, Member of the National Assembly

Cheolmin Jang, Member of the National Assembly, has officially proposed holding a "one-point debate on integration plans for the Chungcheong region" directed at his fellow Democratic Party primary competitors, Jongtae Jang and Taejung Heo, stating that "each candidate's alternatives and visions for the failed integration must be verified in front of the citizens."

On March 18, at a press conference held at the Daejeon Metropolitan Council, Cheolmin Jang, who is planning to run for Mayor of Daejeon as a Democratic Party candidate, explained the background of his proposal, saying, "In the wake of the failed administrative integration between Daejeon and South Chungcheong Province, our candidates have a responsibility to present citizens with clear visions and alternatives for how to keep the spark of integration alive."

Jang referenced his own recent actions, saying, "Immediately after the collapse of the integration plan on March 13, I announced a two-track alternative: the establishment of a 'New Capital Special City' by integrating Daejeon, Sejong, and Cheongju, and the creation of a 'Chungcheong Special Autonomous Province.' In particular, I even pledged to shorten the term of the Daejeon mayor to ensure the launch of the New Capital Special City in 2028."

Jang further emphasized, "I had expected the other two candidates to present their own alternatives and visions regarding the failed integration, but they have yet to state their positions. As this silence has continued, some are now criticizing a particular candidate for prioritizing the completion of a mayoral term over regional integration. This makes it all the more important for us to prove our sincerity in front of the citizens."

Regarding the format of the debate, Jang proposed, "Separate from the party-mandated debates, let us hold a debate focused solely on 'integration plans for the Chungcheong region.' I am willing to follow whatever schedule, location, and format the two other candidates prefer, so I ask that we finalize the details within this week."

In closing, Jang stated, "The citizens of Daejeon are carefully watching to see who is most earnestly considering the future of the city. Let us show together that the Democratic Party, united, can help build a Korea led by the Chungcheong region."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.