The approval rating of Korea's ruling party, People Power Party, has fallen to 17%, prompting calls from incumbent lawmakers for a shift in policy and strategy.
The approval rating of the People Power Party has plummeted to 17%, marking a new low since the appointment of the party's leader, Jang Dong-hyuk. This decline in support has elicited urgent demands from incumbent lawmakers for a re-evaluation of the party's direction, particularly in light of public sentiment against the party's refusal to distance itself from former President Yoon Suk-yeol. Some lawmakers are advocating for a general assembly discussion to address these issues, recognizing the nearing election deadline of 98 days.
Lawmakers, including Eom Tae-young and Jo Eun-hee, stressed the need for a united stance on the issue as criticism grows regarding the party leadership's approach. Eom described the latest approval rating as "shocking," indicating that the drop signifies a serious disconnection from the electorate. The call for a change in policy reflects a broader concern among lawmakers that maintaining ties with Yoon, who has faced scrutiny for various crises during his presidency, is detrimental to the party's image and electoral prospects.
The urgency of the matter was further underscored by concerns raised by veteran legislators who met with the party leader to convey the gravity of to recover ahead of the June 3 local elections. While there seems to be a consensus on the need to strengthen ties with the electorate, opinions diverge on how to approach Yoon. Some lawmakers view a break as necessary to rescue the party's failing public image, while others remain cautious about the potential fallout from distancing themselves from a figure still holding considerable power within the party.
