William Lai, the frontrunner in Taiwan’s 2024 presidential election, has named Hsiao Bi-khim, the self-ruled island’s former envoy to the United States, as his running mate. The announcement was made on November 20, 2023.
Hsiao is a fluent English speaker with deep connections in Washington, D.C., and she is seen as a strong asset to Lai’s campaign. She is also a popular figure in Taiwan, and her appointment is likely to boost Lai’s chances of winning the election.
Lai is the vice president of Taiwan and the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) presidential candidate. He has consistently led opinion polls ahead of the election, which is taking place amid increased pressure from China on Taiwan to accept Beijing’s sovereignty claims.
Hsiao was Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to the United States from 2020 to 2023. She is a former diplomat and journalist, and she is widely respected for her expertise on U.S.-Taiwan relations.
Lai’s selection of Hsiao as his running mate is a strategic move that is likely to appeal to both domestic and international voters. Hsiao’s experience and connections in the United States are seen as valuable assets in Taiwan’s efforts to maintain its independence and strengthen its ties with Washington.
The presidential election in Taiwan is scheduled for January 13, 2024.