[4][5] After finishing his master's degree, Lii gave up dual American citizenship and returned to Taiwan to complete his military service.
[7][8][9] Lii also worked for the Democratic Progressive Party and later the National Security Council, specializing in international outreach and diplomatic policy research.
[18][19] Lii's legislative campaign was noted for a slim chance of victory,[20][21] but attracted attention for using military imagery, considered rare for a DPP candidate.
[22] He also wore a large balloon advertising his campaign, as well as gloves resembling lobster claws, and a winged mussel costume to draw attention to aquaculture in Lienchang County.
[30] Lii launched his second legislative campaign in November 2023, again facing Chen Hsueh-sheng, as well as Taiwan People's Party candidate Tsao Erh-kai.