KMT insiders warn Jaw Shaw-kong's war rhetoric is electoral poison

Internal criticism is emerging within Taiwan's Kuomintang (KMT) party regarding Chairwoman Jaw Shaw-kong's emphasis on cross-strait war risks, with some senior party officials labeling it a "poison" for electoral prospects.

These critics argue that while Jaw's focus on potential conflict might have some effect in multi-seat elections where a small percentage of votes can secure a win, it creates a false impression of widespread support for her peace narrative. They contend that in single-seat elections, this approach could backfire significantly. Furthermore, they warn that if Jaw continues to emphasize her cross-strait peace theories and discuss China and Xi Jinping extensively during her campaign stops, other party members will increasingly distance themselves from her.

The critics point out that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) often employs a "resist China, protect Taiwan" strategy during election years. They believe it is naive for the KMT to fall into this trap. They also suggest that Jaw's cross-strait peace framework has not been thoroughly discussed or supported by various factions within the party, making it vulnerable to attacks from the DPP, which is adept at using anti-China rhetoric.

KMT officials involved in local election campaigns suggest that the party should focus on issues that directly impact citizens' daily lives, such as the local economy and public welfare. They believe that topics like mandatory caning, drunk driving, and anti-fraud measures, combined with referendums proposed by the KMT caucus, can directly appeal to voters and counter the DPP's anti-China stance. They question whether Jaw understands the current state of local elections or the concerns of KMT candidates and local leaders.

Some KMT campaign aides observe that Jaw's recent efforts, including meetings with Chinese officials and visits to the US, seem aimed at consolidating her leadership position. However, they emphasize that local elections are primarily decided by the performance of incumbent officials and their visions for local development. While acknowledging Jaw's support base among the deep-blue faction, these aides stress that maintaining party unity is paramount to securing local electoral strongholds, and open conflict with Jaw at this stage would be counterproductive.