Progress Singapore Party (PSP) candidate Stephanie Tan is hopeful that her party’s strong performance in Parliament over the last five years will help boost her chances in Pioneer SMC at the upcoming General Election.
Speaking during a walkabout on April 26, Ms Tan, 37, said the “sensing on the ground has been pretty good”, with residents recognising her from months of outreach efforts.
“I have been here quite often. I have visited all 131 blocks in the constituency,” she said.
Ms Tan, a political newcomer and former lawyer who is now a homemaker, is contesting in Pioneer SMC for the first time. She replaces PSP’s Lim Cher Hong, who contested the ward in GE2020.
Since the last election, PSP’s Leong Mun Wai and Hazel Poa have entered Parliament as Non-Constituency MPs (NCMPs) after their strong showing in West Coast GRC, earning the party greater visibility and credibility.
“Young people, first-time and second-time voters have been asking good policy questions about jobs, housing and education,” said Ms Tan, adding that she answered based on PSP’s debates in Parliament.
Ms Tan said that while she acknowledges the good reputation of incumbent PAP MP Patrick Tay, she hopes voters will also appreciate her personal touch and caregiving experience.
“We are both lawyers by training. But as a full-time mother, I understand caregiving deeply and hope to build personal relationships with residents,” she said.
Pioneer SMC will see a straight fight between PSP and PAP on May 3.
In GE2020, Mr Tay secured 62 per cent of the vote in a three-cornered fight against PSP’s Lim Cher Hong and an independent candidate.
Ms Tan, speaking after a coffee shop dialogue session near Pioneer MRT, said she is focused on doing her best and getting to know residents, regardless of the election outcome.
“I just enjoy the experience and take the opportunity to get to know the residents. If elected, I hope to continue building strong relationships,” she said.
