TPP emerges as new force in Taiwan’s political landscape

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's recent general elections, closely watched globally, brought a test for the presidency and a significant shift in the Legislative Yuan. As voters chose representatives for the 113 legislative seats, the outcome revealed a fragmented political landscape and a focus on domestic issues over cross-strait relations, according to TVBS commentator Wenchi Yu.

Election Results Reflect Changing Dynamics

The major political parties, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Kuomintang (KMT), failed to secure a clear majority in the Legislative Yuan. The DPP and KMT won 51 and 52 seats, respectively, while the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), a newer entity, emerged with eight seats, becoming a crucial voting bloc. Interestingly, Yu remarked that two non-party members, closely affiliated with the KMT, also secured seats.

The legislative body overseeing the administration and approving budgets now reflects a more diverse political representation. Of the 113 legislators, 73 are elected from single-member districts, while 34 are at-large legislative seats based on party lists and party votes. The DPP led with 36% of the party votes, closely followed by the KMT with 34%, and the TPP with 22%, among a total of 16 participating parties.

A Shift Toward Domestic Concerns
This election, with a voter turnout of 72% — one of the lowest since Taiwan's first direct presidential election in 1996 — highlighted a shift in voter priorities. Domestic issues such as energy transition, escalating housing costs, inflation, and concerns about the future of young people took precedence over the usual focus on cross-strait relations or national identity. Yu argued that this change in voter sentiment reflects frustration after eight years of perceived unfulfilled promises by the DPP government.

Both the DPP and KMT witnessed a decline in voter confidence, contrasting with the TPP, established in 2019, which garnered substantial support from young voters. The TPP's rise indicates a significant shift in Taiwan's political landscape, marking the emergence of a formidable third-party challenge.

The results also showcased Taiwan's commitment to gender equality, with an impressive 42% of the new legislators being female, Yu continued. This aspect underscores Taiwan's progress in female political participation.

Looking Forward
With no clear majority in the legislature, the focus now shifts to the election of the president of the Legislative Yuan, scheduled for February 1. According to Yu, the leadership battle between a KMT and a DPP leader is very likely, reflecting the closely contested political environment.

Despite the DPP securing a third term in administration, governing and passing critical budgets, including arms purchases and social welfare programs, will present challenges. The fragmented legislature signifies a new era in Taiwan's political narrative, one that emphasizes a vibrant and authentic democracy beyond its relationship with China.