KAOHSIUNG/TAIPEI — Taiwan’s presidential election next month will be a pivotal moment in the island’s history: Its outcome could solidify the territory’s always-precarious sovereignty, plunge it into conflict with China, or set it on a trajectory toward incorporation into its larger neighbor.
The front-runner in the three-horse race is Lai Ching-te of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party. The 64-year-old son of a coal miner is a fierce defender of Taiwan’s sovereignty, welcoming the continued support of the U.S. and like-minded partners. He has made Hsiao Bi-khim, who until November was Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to the U.S., his running mate on the DPP ticket.
