Regarding Tan Jee Say's Istana suggestion, populism and patriotism

I find I really welcome it when Mr Tan Jee Say, on the first day it was known of his intention to run for presidency, proposed to turn our presidential palace grounds (not including the offices, of course) into a public park, for everyone to be able to go in every day to enjoy the space.

So what if Tony Tan says he supports the "Singaporeans first" policy?

I think it is a good thing that all the presidential candidates have tried to express their independence, whether they are closely linked to the PAP or otherwise. What is the use of the president, if he is not independent and just a mouthpiece of the government, i.e. the PAP one. The problem then, is who is the one who is really independent?