Taiwanese voters cast their ballots on Saturday in an election that will determine the island’s next president and legislature. The outcome of the election has the potential to shape Taiwan’s relationship with China over the next four years. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under its control. Alongside the issue of cross-strait relations, domestic concerns such as the sluggish economy and expensive housing have also played a significant role in the campaign.
The two main presidential candidates represent opposing views on how to navigate Taiwan’s relationship with China. Vice President Lai Ching-te, from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), advocates for independence-leaning policies and hopes to secure an unprecedented third term for the party. On the other hand, Hou Yu-ih of the Beijing-favored Kuomintang (KMT) party supports pragmatic exchanges with China while prioritizing national security and human rights.
A third candidate, Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), has gained popularity among young voters seeking an alternative to the two major parties. Ko has emphasized the importance of pragmatic governance and economic development.
China’s military threats have been a prominent issue in the campaign, but the United States has reassured its support for Taiwan regardless of the election outcome. The Biden administration plans to send an unofficial delegation to the island shortly after the election, further reinforcing its commitment to Taiwan.
Apart from China-Taiwan relations, domestic issues such as the economy and housing have been central to voters’ concerns. Taiwan’s economy, heavily reliant on high-tech exports, has experienced a slowdown due to cyclic demand and the impact of China’s slowing economy. Additionally, unaffordable housing and wage stagnation have put pressure on the government to address these challenges.
The winner of the presidential election will be determined by the candidate with the most votes, without the need for a runoff. The legislative races are also being held concurrently, with seats up for grabs in both districts and at-large positions. The outcome of the election is expected to have a significant impact on Taiwan’s geopolitical landscape and its relationship with China.