Taiwan Election Has Implications for US–China Relations

Taiwan's Vice President Lai Ching-te and running mate, Hsiao Bi-Khim, pose for a photo after registering for the upcoming presidential election at the Central Election Commission in Taipei, Taiwan, on Nov. 21, 2023. Ann Wang/Reuters

Commentary

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would prefer for the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) or Kuomintang (KMT) to win the upcoming Taiwan elections, scheduled for Jan. 13. Still, the incumbent Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is expected to retain the presidency and maintain their policy of remaining independent of China while fostering close relations with the United States.