North Miami-Dade News

WASHINGTON, D.C.– The Congressional Taiwan Caucus, consisting of Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA), and Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY), has introduced a resolution in support of democracy in Taiwan. The resolution commends Taiwan for its history of democratic elections and expresses support for Taiwan's democratic institutions. The resolution is cosponsored by several members of the House and Senate, including Reps. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), as well as Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA).

The introduction of this resolution comes ahead of Taiwan's upcoming elections on January 13, 2024. These elections mark the eighth presidential election and tenth legislative elections since Taiwan began its transition to democracy.

Congressman Díaz-Balart emphasizes the importance of the U.S.-Taiwan relationship, stating, "The United States and Taiwan share core values, including a commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. As Taiwan faces growing threats to its democracy and security from Communist China, this resolution reaffirms our unwavering commitment to Taiwan."

Congressman Connolly stresses the need for solidarity with Taiwan, stating, "Now more than ever, it is imperative that the United States stands in total solidarity with Taiwan and its commitment to democracy. Taiwan's leadership as a global leader in public health, advanced manufacturing, and democratic governance underscore the importance of protecting democratic institutions and rejecting authoritarianism at home and abroad."

Congressman Bera commends Taiwan for its democratic governance and highlights the upcoming presidential election as a testament to Taiwan's commitment to democracy, despite disinformation and coercion from Beijing. He states, "Taiwan stands as a vibrant democracy and a shining beacon of freedom and the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific. The United States remains steadfast in support of the people of Taiwan and our shared commitment to democratic values and the rule of law."

Congressman Barr emphasizes Taiwan's status as a trusted partner and the importance of supporting a democratic Taiwan in the face of increasing aggression from the Chinese Communist Party. He states, "With the Chinese Communist Party increasing aggression toward Taiwan, it is more important now than ever that we renew our commitment to support a democratic Taiwan."

Chairman McCaul emphasizes the need for democracies around the world to support Taiwan's democratic process and affirms Congress' support of Taiwan as a beacon of democracy in the Indo-Pacific. He states, "As the Chinese Communist Party ramps up disinformation about Taiwan, this resolution affirms Congress' support of Taiwan as a beacon of democracy in the Indo-Pacific and the Taiwanese people's wishes."

The resolution is cosponsored by a significant number of Representatives, reflecting broad support for Taiwan. It commends Taiwan for its history of democratic elections and expresses support for the preservation of its democratic institutions. The resolution also highlights the peaceful transfer of power and the importance of Taiwan's democratic institutions in upholding freedoms of speech, press, assembly, and religion.

In conclusion, the resolution reaffirms the House of Representatives' commitment to supporting Taiwan's self-defense and the liberty of its people through effective deterrence using all elements of United States power.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/taiwan-caucus-co-chairs-introduce-resolution-support-democracy-taiwan