Members of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus have introduced a resolution expressing their support for Taiwan ahead of its forthcoming election. The resolution, unveiled on January 10, commends Taiwan's democratic practices.
According to a press release from Rep. Andy Barr's (R-Ky.) office, the resolution states: "Whereas, from 1949 until today, the people of the United States and the people of Taiwan have stood as partners against coercion, threats of war, and armed attacks from the People’s Republic of China; The House of Representatives: commends Taiwan for the example it has set for self-governance, not just for the Pacific region, but for the world; remains concerned about interference in Taiwan’s 2024 elections by the Chinese Communist Party; is committed to supporting Taiwan’s self defense and the liberty of its people through effective deterrence using all elements of United States power."
China has long claimed sovereignty over Taiwan, a contention rooted in historical events that trace back to 1949 when the government of the Republic of China relocated to Taiwan after losing a civil war against Mao Zedong's communists. This led to the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Recently, Xi Jinping has voiced his intention to regain control over Taiwan, officially known as Republic of China. These conversations regarding Xi's ambitions coincide with Taiwan's upcoming presidential and other elections scheduled for January 13th, according to an article from Reuters.
The bipartisan resolution was put forth by Co-Chairs of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus - Reps. Barr, Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), Mario Díaz-Balart (R-Fla.), and Ami Bera (D-Calif.). It was cosponsored in the House by Reps. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), who are respectively Chairman and Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), among others, as per a press release from Barr's office.
Connolly said, "Now more than ever, it is imperative that the United States stands in total solidarity with Taiwan and its commitment to democracy. In the face of relentless threats and intimidation from the People’s Republic of China, Taiwan’s leadership as a global leader in public health, advanced manufacturing, and democratic governance underscore the importance of protecting democratic institutions and rejecting authoritarianism at home and abroad."
