Why Taiwan Is Holding a Recall Vote Opposed by China

An unprecedented move backed by Taiwan President Lai Ching-te to unseat more than a quarter of the island’s legislators was overwhelmingly rejected during the first of two “recall” elections.

All 24 opposition lawmakers whose seats were targeted by Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party survived the initial vote on July 26. The fate of seven more will be decided on Aug. 23. The opposition currently holds a legislative majority, but if at least six of the seven are recalled, this would narrowly open the door for Lai and his party to regain control of the assembly.