U.S. lawmakers remind Taiwan during political turmoil: ‘Democracy can be chaotic’

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators, led by Sen. Tammy Duckworth, delivered a strong message in support of democracy during their visit to Taiwan amidst political turmoil. Duckworth emphasized the importance of messy democracy over authoritarian control, as Taiwan faced domestic unrest over rejected parliamentary reforms favoring China.

The delegation, including Sens. Dan Sullivan, Chris Coons, and Laphonza Butler, arrived in Taiwan following a previous visit by House lawmakers led by Rep. Michael McCaul. The lawmakers met with Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te, who Beijing labels a “separatist.”

The political turmoil in Taiwan stemmed from proposed reforms that increase oversight of the government, giving lawmakers more control over budgets, including defense spending. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party opposed the changes, leading to protests and physical fights among lawmakers.

Despite China’s military drills around Taiwan in response to Lai’s inauguration, the island remained focused on internal political struggles. U.S. lawmakers’ visits to Taiwan highlighted the importance of the island’s democracy and the need for checks and balances.

While the U.S. does not have formal relations with Taiwan, it remains a crucial supporter and arms supplier. The visits by U.S. lawmakers were seen as provocative by Beijing, which views them as a violation of the one-China policy.

As tensions between Taiwan and China escalate, the bipartisan support from U.S. lawmakers for Taiwan’s democracy sends a strong message of solidarity in the face of external threats. The visit underscored the importance of maintaining Taiwan’s autonomy and democratic values in the region.