TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The head of Taiwan Public Opinion Foundation (台灣民意基金會) warned Monday (Oct. 27) that Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨), Taiwan's main opposition party, Chairwoman Cheng Li-wun's (鄭麗文) defense and cross-strait policies, relations with China, diverge from mainstream Taiwanese opinion. Chairman Michael You (游盈隆) questioned whether Cheng's non-traditional leadership background could help the opposition win the 2026 and 2028 elections.
You highlighted the upcoming Trump-Xi Meeting (川習會), a summit between the U.S. and Chinese leaders, in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Wednesday (Oct. 30), marking the first meeting in Trump's second term. The primary goal involves confirming recent U.S.-China trade agreements. Rumors suggest Taiwan might become a bargaining chip despite U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's dismissal of such claims.
You cited a recent foundation survey showing most Taiwanese believe President Trump can prevent a Chinese military invasion, though doubts persist about his willingness. The survey revealed 66.3% of respondents do not blame Taiwan for Beijing's, China's capital, unwillingness to renounce force. Even among KMT supporters, 45.5% share this view.
Cheng Li-wun's opposition to increasing Taiwan's defense budget and advocacy for cross-strait peace, peaceful relations with China, as a solution contradict mainstream opinion and U.S. expectations. You stated this would challenge her societal acceptance. He added she must address leading the KMT without causing anxiety among party candidates. ◼