2004 is such a competitive year for the presidential election for both Taiwan and the United States. In Taiwan, President Chen Shui-bian won re-election by the slimmest of margins, just 0.2 percent, to lead the nation toward a new era on March 20. In the United States, President George W. Bush won four more years in the White House on Nov. 2.
These two elections impressed me so much. Both of the countries' presidential candidates are proving opposite politics to challenge their competitors. President Chen Shui-bian usually offers the ambiguous policies of Taiwan's standing in the world to incite Taiwanese and tease China. However, he still wins the election. The turning point is the gun-shot before the day to vote. After announcing the result of the election, Taiwan fell into a democracy crisis, because more than half of the Taiwanese doubted the accuracy of the ballot count and the fairness of the election. Meanwhile, the opponent, Lien Chan, and his supporters lost confidence in the government institutions and claimed that until authorities agree to investigate the gunshot and recount, they will not stop their rally. Until now, unfortunately, that accident is a mystery, even though President Chen Shui-bian was inaugurated on May 20.
For the United States, moral values tied with the economy and jobs as the top issues in the campaign to affect a dozen swing states' decisions, although most people still question the war the Republicans waged in Iraq. Bush wins among those in swing states who pick moral values by 84-15 and he wins among those who pick terrorism by 85-15. Sen. John Kerry wins by a wide margin among those who picks the economy. On the other hand, Bush's strong leadership, having clear stands on issues, being honest and trustworthy and having strong religious faith were the most valued qualities in a candidate. Apparently, he successfully modifies social issues, such as gay marriage and prayer in school. However, some people worry about Bush's attitude toward war. They cannot help but consider if he will use war to deal with each trouble like he fights Iraq.
As a Taiwanese, I believe owning a peaceful and stable society under a capable government is every citizen's wish. For the people in the United States, this idea is no exception. Regardless of who has won the opportunity to be a president to lead in Taiwan or in the United States, their responsibilities are to keep the harmony in society and to continue to benefit society. Neither Chen Shui-bian nor George W. Bush can inflict damage too strict to Taiwanese and Americans. After all, a Democratic government and its people will have strength to face adversity and move bravely forward.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
