Democratic Party lawmaker Cho Jung-sik has stepped down as the presidential special advisor for political affairs to run for National Assembly Speaker. Within the Democratic Party, six-term Rep. Cho, the most senior sitting lawmaker, will compete against five-term Reps. Kim Tae-nyeon and Park Jie-won for the speakership in the latter half of the 22nd National Assembly.
Cho officially announced his candidacy for Speaker on his social media on Wednesday, saying, "For four months since being appointed special advisor for political affairs on December 28 last year, I have worked with a heavy sense of responsibility as a 'bridge of communication' connecting the party, government and presidential office." He added, "To ensure the success of the Lee Jae-myung administration, I have coordinated without discord at every juncture of state affairs to keep the ruling party in step. Now I wish to stand before a bolder path."
He stressed, "I will take bolder, more humble steps toward a National Assembly of popular sovereignty and livelihoods. With the proven stability of six terms, I will devote myself fully to the calling given to me by the people."
President Lee Jae-myung told Cho, "Special Advisor Cho, thank you for all your hard work. You have always been by my side, and I sincerely thank you."
For the deputy speaker seat allocated to the Democratic Party, four-term veterans Reps. Nam In-soon and Min Hong-chul are competing. Nam wrote on her social media the same day, "In the second year of President Lee's government of popular sovereignty, a capable National Assembly is needed to firmly support the administration's success." She added, "With proven leadership, rich experience and capability, and with the urgency and drive that has defended the three Gangnam districts, I will surely complete the reform agenda of the 22nd National Assembly."
The Democratic Party will select its candidates for the next Speaker and Deputy Speaker through an online vote of eligible party members (20%) on the 11th and 12th of this month, and an on-site vote by lawmakers (80%) on the 13th.
