Possibility of Realignment Among Centrist and Conservative-Leaning Unaffiliated Voters
Public Opinion Strategy Focused on Lee Nakyeon's Symbolic Value
As the June 3 presidential election approaches, speculation about an 'anti-Lee Jaemyung big tent' alliance involving Lee Nakyeon, Senior Advisor of the New Future Democratic Party, and Han Ducksoo, Acting President and concurrently Prime Minister, has emerged as a major issue in political circles. Observers interpret that, depending on whether these two figures join forces, the resulting realignment of centrist and conservative-leaning unaffiliated voters could become a significant variable in the presidential race.
According to political sources on April 30, Senior Advisor Lee has recently increased unofficial contacts with veteran politicians, emphasizing the need for 'normalizing politics.' As he has stressed cooperation for political reform and social integration, he has also indicated that he would be open to discussing shared values with Acting President Han. While stating, "I will not join hands with just anyone," he left open the possibility of an 'anti-Lee' alliance, saying the chances were fifty-fifty.
Political analysts interpret that the conservative camp is positive about a big tent strategy centered around a Lee Nakyeon-Han Ducksoo alliance, uniting centrist voters and some conservatives. Although the two sides have not yet entered into full-fledged discussions, the possibility of an alliance is seen to be growing naturally as they advocate for a restoration of state-centered politics, distinguishing themselves from the hardline supporters of Lee Jaemyung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea. The People Power Party appears to have high expectations for the political symbolism of Senior Advisor Lee. Should Lee, a former Democratic Party leader, join the anti-Lee big tent, it is believed this could significantly shake up public opinion.
Former Prime Minister Lee Nakyeon is being interviewed at the Asia Economy headquarters. Photo by Huh Younghan
The Democratic Party is taking a cautious stance toward these developments, while internally showing signs of wariness. Kim Minseok, Senior Supreme Council Member of the Democratic Party, on this day raised suspicions of 'pre-campaigning' by Acting President Han and called for an immediate investigation by law enforcement agencies. Kim stated, "If aides who have resigned join Acting President Han's camp, officially or unofficially, within a short period, it can be considered that they engaged in private pre-election activities while still in public office." There are also opinions within the party that Senior Advisor Lee's actions could have some negative impact on the party. One Democratic Party official said, "If a former party leader forms an alliance with a People Power Party figure, it may be used as propaganda rather than exerting real influence."
However, the pro-Lee Jaemyung faction sees little political feasibility in a Lee Nakyeon-Han Ducksoo alliance. One pro-Lee Jaemyung member commented, "I don't think Senior Advisor Lee's actions will expand into a movement that threatens the Democratic Party's identity. The support base for candidate Lee Jaemyung is already solid." Political commentator Park Sangbyung analyzed, "If the People Power Party's support base is about 35 percent, the key will be targeting the unaffiliated and centrist voters in the middle. Senior Advisor Lee's influence on these groups is likely to be minimal. In fact, it could even backfire."
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