“The Taiwan Strait faces grave danger, and the world is watching,” Cheng told supporters. “Taiwan’s security is constantly under threat, but peace remains our only path forward.”

Cheng, 55, succeeds Eric Chu and is known for favoring closer ties with Beijing. Her leadership marks a potential shift in the KMT’s approach to cross-strait relations. Soon after her election, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent her a congratulatory message urging cooperation toward “reunification.”

While Cheng avoided outlining specific policy steps toward China, she emphasized that her party will focus on easing tensions and ensuring stability. Her deputy, Hsiao Hsu-tsen, has already met with senior Chinese officials, signaling early efforts at engagement.

Cheng has also voiced opposition to the current government’s plan to increase defense spending, a policy backed by the United States. Despite losing the presidency in the last election, the KMT and its ally, the Taiwan People’s Party, now control the majority in parliament — positioning them to challenge the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on major decisions.

Her immediate focus will be on preparing for next year’s mayoral and local elections, which could serve as a key indicator of public sentiment ahead of the 2028 presidential race.

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