Yotsanan confirmed the 3,000-baht aid policy for the poor, targeting those aged 18 and above, expressing confidence that Thai Rak Thai's vote share in Chiang Mai will surely return. He asked the public to wait for important policies in the final campaign phase. Meanwhile, Suriya believes the 70/30 cash top-up policy has principles similar to the half-half scheme to stimulate the economy and tourism.
On 9 January 2026, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, Thai Rak Thai's prime ministerial candidate, discussed the policy to support Thais below the poverty line with 3,000 baht. He said preliminary figures show about 3.4 million Thais earn less than the poverty threshold, mostly bedridden patients and some elderly without income. These situations worry their families. The plan is to supplement their income up to 3,000 baht per month, which requires a modest budget and is a targeted expenditure. This assistance preserves human dignity, something all Thais should support. If some recipients can rehabilitate themselves, they will access opportunities. This program is separate from the elderly allowance and will be added for those unable to work and earning below the poverty line. Recipients must be aged 18 or older.
Regarding the policy for overseas Thais who can access loans, it aims to connect and find ways to support Thai tourism through arts, culture, and cuisine. Allowing Thais abroad to borrow money to run businesses would promote fellow Thais.
When Ms. Sirikanya Tansakul, deputy party leader and People’s Party prime ministerial candidate, criticized the project for not truly ending poverty, Yotsanan responded that they are ready to help. When the 30-baht healthcare scheme was introduced, similar criticisms arose. However, preserving human dignity requires care. If there is anything we can do to assist fellow Thais, the public will support it. Once clear data is available, related agencies will provide additional income support.
Meanwhile, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Thai Rak Thai’s prime ministerial candidate, explained the 70% government top-up and 30% citizen contribution policy. He said the current government runs the Half-Half Plus scheme, but tourism, especially foreign tourists, has declined, affecting shops and hotels. Relying on Thai tourists is difficult as the economy is tight, and asking citizens to pay 50% more is almost impossible. Therefore, they considered increasing the government’s share to 70%, while keeping other conditions, including eligibility criteria, unchanged.
Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, Thai Rak Thai’s prime ministerial candidate, spoke about campaigning in Chiang Mai and Lamphun provinces. He said it is just the beginning, but if policies are communicated well in each area, everyone will give Thai Rak Thai a chance. After meeting people, his confidence has grown significantly. He has also tried to communicate from the perspective of Northern people that the most important thing is that they have long been present in this area. Although sometimes less visible in the previous term, they have not disappeared, which will restore the people's trust and support. From recent visits, they have received strong backing and hope this will show the public their commitment, enabling them to win over Lamphun entirely and bring Chiang Mai back to supporting Thai Rak Thai again.
Yotsanan added that based on current popularity, complacency is not an option. The most important thing is to continue explaining the policies to be unveiled and that more policies will be announced in the final campaign phase.
