Memphis Standard

U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn, Dan Sullivan, and Tim Kaine are introducing a bipartisan resolution commending Taiwan for its commitment to democratic elections and institutions. This resolution comes ahead of Taiwan's upcoming presidential and legislative elections scheduled for Saturday, January 13. The resolution aims to show support for Taiwan's democratic values and to send a clear message to Beijing that any attempt to undermine the election will not be tolerated.

Senator Blackburn, who met with President Tsai Ing-wen in Taiwan in August 2022, emphasized the importance of a free and democratic Taiwan for the United States and the Indo-Pacific region. She stated, "As the CCP continues to bully Taiwan, it’s important we show our unwavering support for the Taiwanese people’s continued commitment to our shared values while sending a clear message to Beijing that any attempt to undermine this election will not be tolerated."

Senator Sullivan highlighted the significance of Taiwan's democracy and the potential vulnerability it poses to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). He recalled his experience deploying as part of a Marine Corps task force on the eve of China's first presidential election, when Beijing was threatening to invade Taiwan. He stated, "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 emphasized the importance of the United States standing strong in support of Taiwan's democratic institutions. He stated, "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 additional support from a wide range of senators, including Tim Scott, Kevin Cramer, Chris Coons, John Cornyn, Eric Schmitt, Pete Ricketts, Lisa Murkowski, Mike Crapo, Ted Budd, Chris Van Hollen, Ted Cruz, Steve Daines, Thom Tillis, Todd Young, Jeff Merkley, Brian Schatz, Mitt Romney, Tammy Duckworth, Jeanne Shaheen, John Hoeven, Ed Markey, Jacky Rosen, Rick Scott, Cynthia Lummis, Chuck Grassley, Raphael Warnock, Lindsey Graham, Katie Britt, Deb Fischer, Ron Wyden, Dick Durbin, Catherine Cortez-Masto, Kyrsten Sinema, and Cory Booker.

In addition to the Senate, Representatives Gerry Connolly, Mario Diaz-Balart, Ami Bera, and Andy Barr plan to introduce companion legislation in the House.

This bipartisan resolution serves as a testament to the strong and unwavering support for Taiwan's democracy and its people's commitment to free and fair elections. It sends a clear message to Beijing that any interference in Taiwan's elections will not be tolerated, while reaffirming the United States' commitment to a continuing partnership with a free and democratic Taiwan.