John Copper, professor of International Studies at Rhodes College at Memphis, Tennesses, reviewed positions of presidential candidates, Democrats and Republicans, on defending Taiwan. Below are his observations:
Senator Hillary Clinton. She would probably be best for Taiwan. She has taken a harder stance toward China on various issues, though noticeably more on economic ones. She has been a strong critic of human rights abuses in China and more supportive of the use of US military power.
Senator Barack Obama. Recently, in a speech in Congress, he said he favors a peaceful resolution of Taiwan issue and opposes a unilateral change in the status quo.
Former senator John Edwards. He would probably be the worst Democratic candidate for Taiwan. Presumably, like Kerry before him, he may choose not to use US forces to protect Taiwan.
Former New York mayor Rudy Guliana. He recently opposed Hillary Clinton limiting Chinese ownership of US debt and thinks the US should deal with the trade deficit with China by building more competitive industries and exporting.
Senator John McCain. He stands strong for defending Taiwan.
Former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney. He favors defending Taiwan. However, he has not said much about Taiwan.
Former senator Fred Thompson. He said that the US is obligated to defend Taiwan.
Former congressman Newt Gingrich. He has also taken a tough stand on the issue of protecting Taiwan and preserving its sovereignty.
Copper considers that in coming months, it is difficult to conceive of Taiwan not becoming an issue in the US presidential campaign. It has been in every campaign for more than half a century. (Source: Taipei Times, Jul 15, 2007).