KMT Chairwoman's US Visit Sparks Internal Criticism Over China Focus

Kuomintang (KMT) Chairwoman Hsu Chih-jung's recent two-week visit to the United States has sparked internal dissent within the party, with some members expressing concern that her continued emphasis on cross-strait relations, particularly her frequent mentions of Chinese leader Xi Jinping, is detrimental to the KMT's electoral chances in 2026.

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From the results, it would have been better if Hsu Chih-jung had not visited the US. It's not that there were no results, there were indeed some interactions with senators and representatives, but the attacked areas were not countered, turning into 'accumulating falsehoods until they become truth.'

Former KMT party officials have voiced apprehension, suggesting that Hsu's public statements in the U.S., which focused heavily on China, have not effectively countered criticism and have instead created a perception of alignment with Beijing. They argue that this approach, termed "accumulating falsehoods until they become truth," alienates voters who are wary of such discussions, especially after the KMT's struggles in the 2022 local elections where the "anti-China" strategy proved ineffective for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

These critics advocate for a shift in strategy, urging the KMT to concentrate on local governance, economic development, and urban planning to appeal to a broader base of moderate and undecided voters. They believe that repeatedly invoking China and Xi Jinping, as Hsu has done, is a "rational choice" for the opposition party and that candidates should instead focus on tangible local achievements and visions for their constituencies.

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The 2022 local elections have already proven that the DPP's anti-China card is ineffective. For the KMT in 2026, the most rational approach is to avoid the anti-China, protect-Taiwan card and not talk about China and Xi Jinping with the DPP. Returning to local governance is the rational choice.

The internal conflict highlights a strategic divide within the KMT. While some party heavyweights, like Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an and Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, are seen as beneficial to campaign posters, Hsu's association with China-centric rhetoric is viewed as a liability. This divergence raises concerns about the party's ability to unite and mobilize its base, particularly the crucial swing voters who supported the KMT in 2022 based on governance rather than ideology. The party leadership faces a critical decision on how to navigate these sensitive cross-strait issues while appealing to a diverse electorate.

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The KMT's candidates are mostly steady types who talk about local construction, regional governance, and urban development achievements and visions. They don't want to talk about the China card anymore.