U.S. primary elections and support for Taiwan

Nevertheless, at this juncture, McCain seems the most sensitive to Taiwanese issues, Clinton seems the least, and Obama seems the vaguest.

McCain’s campaign focuses more directly on security issues than the other candidates. Given his background and experience, security is the strong suite of his candidacy. Hence, he is dealing more directly with cross-strait relations.

In a speech before the Seattle World Affairs Council in February 2007, McCain said, “We see such a success story in Taiwan, whose people no longer comprise a one-party state. ... it is inspiring to see this vibrant democracy deal with its numerous security challenges. And while the government of Taiwan must not needlessly precipitate a crisis, we have to make clear to China’s leaders that attempts to isolate Taiwan internationally or militarily coerce it are unwise. Pointing nearly 900 missiles at Taiwan, passing laws authorize force against the island, and continually practicing amphibious landings are not prudent ways to convince the world of China’s peaceful rise.” (http://www.johnmccain.com/Informing/News/PressReleases/BBA416B9-372D-4C2E-AC02-866A37DB0C86.htm)

The best candidate comparisons are in Foreign Affairs which published a series of articles from the candidates detailing their foreign policy ideas. McCain’s views echo the Seattle speech, and he states, “When China threatens democratic Taiwan with a massive arsenal of missiles and warlike rhetoric, the United States must take note.” (Nov/Dec 2007)

Importantly, McCain comes from the moderate, neo-realist tradition embraced by a portion of the Republican Party. This neo-realist tradition places more emphasis on security and power while recognizing that international institutions and values are important components of international relations. Furthermore, this tradition has been willing to “hedge” American security policy, in case China’s rise is not benign, and is more supportive of Taiwan and of Taiwan’s defensive stance.

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