The ruling-party candidate strongly opposed by China wins Taiwan’s presidential election. In Taiwan's presidential election, ruling-party candidate Lai Ching-te emerged victorious, setting the course for Taiwan's relations with China for the next four years. Lai's win, despite China's strong opposition and claims over Taiwan, was influenced by his party's stance on self-determination and resistance to China's threats. This election marks the first time a single party has led Taiwan for three consecutive terms since 1996. Lai's victory underscores Taiwan's commitment to democracy and its rejection of China's sovereignty claims. The election's outcome is critical for regional dynamics, especially with the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan's strengthening ties with the U.S.