"Taiwan Election 2024: Prospects for Sovereignty and Cross-Strait Peace Amid US Scrutiny"

The upcoming Taiwanese presidential and parliamentary elections on January 13 are being closely monitored by the US, as the results could affect the already tense relations between the US, China, and Taiwan. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party's candidate, William Lai, who is seen as a "separatist" by Beijing, is leading in the polls, which could lead to continued tension with China. The US, Taiwan's most significant international supporter, is bound by law to provide Taiwan with defense means and has recently approved a significant military sale to the island. The elections could also influence the US's strategic ambiguity policy towards Taiwan and the broader US-China relationship.