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Taiwanology

【Taiwanology Ep.38】What a Trump Comeback Means for Taiwan

Nov 12, 2024
Silva Shih, Senior Managing Editor at CommonWealth Magazine and seasoned China correspondent, discusses Trump's political resurgence and its implications for Taiwan. She contrasts the vibrant atmosphere of Trump rallies with quieter gatherings for Harris, revealing the electorate’s pressing concerns. Silva delves into how Trump’s comments on defense and trade could reshape US-Taiwan relations. With rising conservative sentiments among young voters and tensions with China, she highlights Taiwan's vital role in its defense strategy.
29:46

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Trump's political comeback is fueled by American voters' economic concerns, particularly inflation, overshadowing international issues like foreign policy.
  • Taiwan may face pressure to increase defense spending and engagement in response to Trump's 'protection fee' comment, influencing U.S.-China dynamics.

Deep dives

Trump's Landslide Victory and Public Sentiment

Donald Trump secured a remarkable victory in the recent U.S. election, surpassing expectations and showcasing his strong appeal among the electorate. Observations from the ground indicate that voters expressed significant concerns about pressing issues like inflation and the economy, with many feeling a desire for change. During rallies in pivotal battleground states, a stark contrast emerged between Trump's enthusiastic supporters and those attending Joe Biden's events, highlighting the divide in messaging and engagement. This sentiment of dissatisfaction with the current economic situation played a pivotal role in driving voters towards Trump's campaign, aligning with historical trends in election outcomes based on economic performance.

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