TAIPEI, Taiwan — With half of the votes counted, Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party candidate Lai Ching-te is leading in the race for the presidency, according to local media reports. The polls closed on Saturday in Taiwan’s presidential and parliamentary election, which will shape the future of the self-ruled democracy’s relationship with China over the next four years.
The election holds significant implications for the peace and stability of the island, located 160 kilometers (100 miles) off the coast of China, which Beijing claims as its own and has threatened to retake by force if necessary. In addition to the China issue, domestic concerns such as the sluggish economy and expensive housing have played a prominent role in the campaign.
China has framed the election as a choice between war and peace, strongly opposing the front-runner Lai Ching-te, the current Vice President and candidate of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Both Lai and incumbent President Tsai Ing-wen reject China’s sovereignty claims over Taiwan, which split from the mainland in 1949. While they have expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with Beijing, China has consistently refused, branding them as separatists.
Beijing is believed to favor the candidate from the more China-friendly Nationalist party, also known as Kuomintang (KMT). Hou Yu-ih, the KMT candidate, has pledged to restart talks with China while emphasizing the need to strengthen national defense. He has promised not to move towards unification with the mainland if elected.
A third candidate, Ko Wen-je of the smaller Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), has gained support, particularly from young people seeking an alternative to the DPP and KMT. Ko has also expressed a desire to communicate with Beijing, with the condition that Taiwan must remain democratic and free.
The United States, bound by its laws to provide Taiwan with necessary defense weapons, has pledged support for whichever government emerges. This commitment is further reinforced by the Biden administration’s plan to send an unofficial delegation of former senior officials to the island shortly after the election.
In addition to China-related tensions, domestic issues such as the lack of affordable housing and stagnant wages have dominated the campaign. Taiwan’s economy, heavily dependent on high-tech exports, has seen sluggish growth, which is partly attributed to fluctuations in demand for computer chips and a slowdown in the Chinese economy.
The outcome of the election is anticipated to have a significant impact on the geopolitical landscape, as it will determine Taiwan’s relationship with China relative to Western nations and influence the situation in the South China Sea.
As the vote counting continues, the candidate with the most votes will win the presidency, with no runoff required. The legislative races include both district and at-large seats.
As Taiwanese citizens cast their votes, their motivations vary. Tony Chen, a 74-year-old retiree, sees the election as a choice between communism and democracy, hoping for democracy to prevail. Stacy Chen, 43, has always voted for the DPP, emphasizing Taiwan’s status as an independent country. Ben Wang, 44, views the election as an opportunity to challenge the dominance of the DPP and KMT, acknowledging that Taiwan cannot preempt a potential attack from China.
Across Taipei and its suburb, New Taipei City, supporters gathered at the headquarters of the three parties. Vibrant watch parties featured flags, music, and large stages.
Lai, after casting his vote in his hometown of Tainan, called on Taiwanese people to vote enthusiastically and showcase the vitality of Taiwan’s democracy. Hou, who took leave from his position as mayor to run for president, expressed the need for unity after the elections, emphasizing the importance of chaos during the campaign. Ko, in his characteristic dry manner, aimed to give his best effort each day and plan for the future.
The election results will soon become clear, revealing the direction in which Taiwan will navigate its future relations with China and address pressing domestic issues.
