The heart of strong reform, Jeong Cheong-rae – a choice to advance the Democratic Party again

The beginning of candidacy and the reason

Jeong Cheong-rae, a member of the National Assembly, was the first to announce his candidacy for the next leadership election of the Democratic Party. This was not just the beginning of a political schedule, but a resolute response and declaration by politician Jeong Cheong-rae to the realities of politics. The background of his decision to run is rooted in a deep inquiry about what kind of leadership the Democratic Party needs at this moment. He diagnoses the current political situation in South Korea as being “in the midst of a civil war.” Although a new president has taken office, individuals appointed by the Yoon Seok-yeol administration still occupy key positions in the executive and judicial branches, and they continue to resist reforms through invisible means. This is why Jeong Cheong-rae argues that the Democratic Party needs a leader who can fight at the forefront of reforms, rather than someone who is complacent under the name of cooperation and stability. He describes himself as “someone who will take responsibility for the fight.” The opponents he aims to confront are not specific individuals, but rather organized anti-reform forces, and his goal is not merely conflict but the fulfillment of reforms that must be achieved. His announcement of candidacy, stating that he aims to bring hope to the people through winning fights, was resolute and clear.

The Philosophy and Tactics of the 'Strong Reform Party Leader Theory'

Jung Cheong-rae, a member of the National Assembly, states that strong leadership is necessary to fight against the ruling party, conservative media, and the entrenched judicial system. He diagnoses the current situation as a "war with no time," emphasizing that it is a moment when the Democratic Party must fight like an infighter. His slogan is summarized in the phrases "strong reform party leader" and "I will rush in like a storm and finish it like a lightning strike." He explains his political philosophy through the analogy of boxing. He says, "There is no time for outboxing now," stressing the need for a direct approach. His strategy is not merely about emphasizing speed. It is based on a tactical mindset of cornering the opponent from the very beginning and not giving them a chance to counterattack. He adheres to the principle that "the best offense is the best defense," believing that any moment of hesitation or focus on defense allows for a counter-strike. This kind of determination and momentum is not just an emotional outburst it is a strategy rooted in thorough preparation and situational assessment, indicating a politically calculated approach.

Execution Strategy - Reform of Speed and Structure

Representative Jeong Cheong-rae is not only presenting the direction of reform but is also clearly stating what specific measures he will take if he becomes the party leader. He announced that immediately after being elected at the party convention on August 2, he would appoint the party leader’s secretary-general and spokesperson first, and then on the following day, August 3, he would launch the Prosecutorial Reform TF, Judicial Reform TF, and Media Reform TF simultaneously. This means he plans to quickly push forward both personnel appointments and organizational restructuring in order to visualize the reforms. Regarding prosecutorial reform, he has indicated that there will be a speedy process based on already prepared legislative proposals. The abolition of the prosecution office, the separation of the prosecution and investigation departments, and the establishment of a National Investigation Commission have been formulated as reform proposals within the Democratic Party, and he emphasizes that these can be realized by the legislative branch rather than the executive branch. The 'one year grace period' he mentions does not imply postponing reform. It is merely a physical preparation time and a transition period for institutional implementation, and it is a declaration that substantial reforms will begin immediately after his election. Representative Jeong Cheong-rae states that "the National Assembly must seize time and space." This means he will not relinquish the initiative in the political arena, and he emphasizes that proactive and speedy legislation is essential to create reforms that the public can feel.

Friendly competition with Representative Park Chan-dae

Representative Jung Cheong-rae exhibits an honest and warm attitude towards Representative Park Chan-dae, who is also a contender in the same party leadership race. He expresses his genuine feelings by saying, 'I just like Park Chan-dae,' 'I sometimes want to see him, and I hope he succeeds.' Although they are in competition, he hopes that this rivalry will not leave any wounds in their hearts. In fact, the two staged an entrance scene at the party convention where they held hands, showcasing a political culture of friendly competition. Representative Jung summarized this by saying, 'We have decided not to part ways,' firmly asserting that no external forces can separate them. This relationship is based on political trust that goes beyond mere personal liking. Even amid their rivalry, both maintain a shared stance on the direction of the party and the will for reform, confirming that they are comrades who will work together for the future of the Democratic Party.

Lightness in Weight – A Rebuttal to Political Style

Jung Cheong-rae, a member of the National Assembly, often receives evaluations that he is "lightweight." In response, he states, "I want to be infinitely lightweight," opposing the stereotype that the form and substance of politics must be rigid. He argues that politics should also serve the public and that there can be "politics that is pleasant to the ears and eyes." However, his actual political actions have been anything but light. His 24-day hunger strike during the Sewol ferry disaster, the restrained behavior and sense of responsibility he exhibited while serving as the Chair of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, and his role as a member of the impeachment prosecution team at the Constitutional Court all serve as examples that prove his seriousness. Jung Cheong-rae emphasizes that the ability to adopt an appropriate attitude in various situations is an important quality for a politician. He believes that one should be friendly in a campaign setting, decisive in a courtroom, and engaging in broadcasts. He describes this as "politics suited to TPO," demonstrating his flexible persona that can embody both seriousness and lightheartedness.

The future of the Democratic Party as described by Jung Cheong-rae

The lawmaker Jeong Cheong-rae states, 'The Democratic Party will fight, so the people should focus on their daily lives.' This is a declaration that places the essence of politics in the public realm and aims to make the lives of the citizens more peaceful and stable. He emphasizes the division of roles between the president and the party. The president is responsible for national unity and the stability of governance, while the Democratic Party will work at the center of reform and conflict. He expresses that he is ready to accurately calibrate and execute the national roadmap based on communication and cooperation with President Lee Jae-myung. His commitment to meticulously manage the schedule and methods of legislative tasks shows that he is not just a combative politician but also an execution-oriented strategist. Lawmaker Jeong Cheong-rae's message is clear. What the Democratic Party needs now is not stability, but reform, and this reform cannot be achieved without conflict. He reiterates, 'A strong reform party, let’s put a dot and make Jeong Cheong-rae the party leader.'