East Idaho Times

Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) has joined Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Tim Kaine (D-Virgina) in introducing a bipartisan resolution to commend Taiwan for its unwavering commitment to democratic elections and institutions, despite ongoing threats from the Chinese Communist Party. The resolution comes ahead of Taiwan's upcoming presidential and legislative elections scheduled for Saturday, January 13, 2024.

Crapo emphasized the importance of supporting Taiwan and its vibrant democracy, stating, "Supporting ties with Taiwan and its vibrant democracy is in Idaho’s, and our nation’s, best interests. Taiwan is Idaho’s second largest trade partner. China’s increasing efforts to militarily overwhelm Taiwan pose a threat to international diplomacy, regional security, and economic prosperity. It is more important than ever to honor our commitments to defend our allies and diplomatic partners like Taiwan by showing our support for the practice and continuation of their democracy."

Senator Sullivan highlighted the critical nature of the current situation, stating, "This is a volatile and potentially dangerous time. Between the election on January 13 and the inauguration in May, the United States needs to show steady, unwavering commitment and resolve in support of Taiwan’s democracy. We also need to enhance cross-strait deterrence now." Sullivan drew from his own experience, recalling, "In my own career, I deployed as part of a Marine Corps task force on the eve of China’s first presidential election when Beijing was threatening to invade Taiwan and shooting missiles over the island. Today, Taiwan is considered one of the freest countries in the world. Every Taiwan election threatens the central premise of the Chinese Communist Party—that one dictator ruling in perpetuity knows what’s best for 1.4 billion people. Millions of Chinese on the mainland will be watching Taiwan’s upcoming election and asking the question, ‘Why can’t we do that?’ This is a giant vulnerability for Xi Jinping."

Senator Kaine reaffirmed the importance of supporting Taiwan's democratic institutions and expressed solidarity with the Taiwanese people, stating, "Taiwan is a thriving democracy and one of our closest partners in the Indo-Pacific region. In light of Taiwan’s upcoming elections, the U.S. should stand strong in support of Taiwan’s democratic institutions, and it’s important that the Taiwanese people know that they have our support. This resolution sends a clear message that any interference by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the 2024 elections will not be tolerated and reaffirms our commitment to a continuing partnership with a free and democratic Taiwan."

The resolution has garnered significant bipartisan support, with co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle. Senators Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Chris Coons (D-Delaware), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and many others have joined as co-sponsors. In addition, Representatives Gerry Connolly (D-Virginia), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Florida), Ami Bera (D-California), and Andy Barr (R-Kentucky) plan to introduce companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The resolution serves as a symbol of the United States' commitment to Taiwan's democracy and a strong message to the Chinese Communist Party that any interference in Taiwan's elections will not be tolerated. As Taiwan prepares for its eighth presidential election, the world watches closely, acknowledging the progress and freedom that Taiwan represents.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-joins-resolution-to-commend-taiwans-commitment-to-democracy