Domestic Stresses Reshaping Politics in Taiwan

This analysis argues that domestic socioeconomic issues, rather than cross-strait geopolitics, will dominate Taiwan's upcoming elections. The DPP cannot rely on US support under President Trump, who prioritizes relations with Xi Jinping over defending Taiwan. The KMT will struggle to benefit from Beijing's promises due to continued PLA military activities and disinformation campaigns. The TPP's 26% voter bloc, largely young and economically alienated, is up for grabs after Ko Wen-je's legal troubles. Key domestic stresses include legislative paralysis (failure to pass the 2026 budget) and a dual-speed economy where tech sector wealth contrasts with stagnating wages for others. The article concludes that voters will punish parties failing to address these bread-and-butter issues.