Taiwan Election Dominated by Cross-Strait Peace Issue Amid Beijing's Threats

Leading Candidate William Lai Challenged to Abandon Pro-Independence Stand, All Candidates Agree on Strengthening Taiwan's Defenses

Taiwan's presidential election is dominated by the issue of cross-strait peace, with candidates from all parties vowing to maintain it despite Beijing's growing threats.
Leading candidate William Lai, currently Taiwanese vice-president, is challenged to abandon his pro-independence stand, as it is suggested it could lead to war.
Lai's running mate Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan's former de facto ambassador to the United States, states that Taiwan's ruling party will not let war break out with China, blaming China for stirring up tensions.
Kuomintang's vice presidential candidate, Jaw Shaw-kong, criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party for not understanding mainland China and the Communist Party, and using the China threat as a chip to get elected.
All three candidates agree on the need to strengthen Taiwan's defensive capabilities, while maintaining the status quo.