Ocean County Leader

US Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chairman of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China and a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has issued a statement congratulating Taiwan's newly inaugurated president and vice president.

Smith extended his congratulations to William Lai and Bi-khim Hsiao, stating, “Congratulations to William Lai and Bi-khim Hsiao on their inauguration as President and Vice President of the Republic of China (Taiwan)—a vibrant democracy that stands in stark contrast to the tyranny of Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)."

He praised President Lai's rise from humble beginnings to national leadership, contrasting it with what he described as Xi Jinping’s privileged upbringing within a rigged system. He also lauded Vice President Hsiao, who he knows from her time as Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to the United States, for her expertise in foreign relations.

Smith further highlighted some challenges that President Lai might face early in his term. He pointed out potential opposition from hardcore members of his own Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the Legislative Yuan who oppose stronger checks and balances reforms. Smith emphasized that these reforms were once favored by the DPP and are essential for a mature democracy.

In addition, Smith suggested that President Lai and Defense Chief Wellington Koo should focus on strengthening Taiwan’s armed services due to threats from Communist China. He concluded his statement by saying, "The United States and the American people send our support as you embark on this journey.”