Episode 485: Taiwan: Recall, Rejection, and Regional Tension

Today, Jess, Les, and Bishop dive into Taiwan’s recent recall vote targeting more than two dozen KMT legislators accused of obstructing legislation and aligning too closely with Beijing. While the vote ultimately failed and all KMT lawmakers kept their seat, it has deepened Taiwan’s political gridlock and highlighted growing polarization in Taipei. With President Lai still lacking a legislative majority, questions are mounting over the KMT’s ability to block critical defense spending and what that could mean for Taiwan’s security.

What does the failed recall tell us about the current state of Taiwanese politics? How is the Trump Administration’s tough-love strategy shaping Taiwan’s domestic dynamics? And if Trump cuts a trade deal with Beijing, could Taiwan’s security be caught in the crossfire?

Check out the sources that helped shape our Fellows’ discussions: 

https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/26/asia/taiwan-votes-china-lawmaker-election-latam-intl

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/23/asia/taiwan-recall-vote-explained-hnk-intl

https://www.cfr.org/blog/what-failed-recall-taiwan-means-us-taiwan-and-cross-strait-relations

Follow our experts on Twitter: 

@lestermunson

@NotTVJessJones

@BishopGarrison

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