Taiwanese talk show host Cai Kangyong posted on Weibo: "I have always hoped for peaceful and friendly exchanges across the Taiwan Strait and have never supported Taiwan independence." The post comes after Cai was reportedly criticized by mainland authorities and netizens following his attendance at a campaign event for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Taipei mayor contestant Shen Boyang.
In his statement, Cai elaborated, "I have interviewed nearly 10,000 guests since 1998, and have never become a follower of any of them. Interviewing someone does not mean agreeing with them." Cai also acknowledged that his practice of visiting and observing the events of interviewees for information gathering had led to criticisms, which he fully understood but hoped these criticisms would not disrupt his work or cause distress to his partners and those who previously admired him.
Cai expressed gratitude to his parents who met in Taipei after migrating there from Shanghai, and to all past connections that allowed him to be seen and heard. He extended his thanks "for giving me the strength to keep on living," and wished those who had supported him well.