House Republicans heap praise on Taiwan's new leader in direct jab at China

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FIRST ON FOX: House Republicans are making a formal show of support for Taiwan’s newly elected president on Thursday in a move that’s likely to irritate Beijing’s ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

In a letter sent to President-elect Lai Ching-te and signed by six GOP lawmakers, they vowed to help the island withstand Chinese "pressure" and accused Beijing of continuing its campaign of aggression against its neighbors in Southeast Asia.

"We want to offer our sincere congratulations on your recent victory in Taiwan’s presidential election. Once again, the Taiwanese people have demonstrated the strength of your country’s robust democratic system in a region where these values are not always shared," the U.S. lawmakers wrote.

"Strengthening the U.S.-Taiwan relationship remains one of our top priorities, especially in light of China’s growing aggression."

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The letter was led by Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas.

Lai’s election by Taiwanese voters was not unexpected but is still a rebuke of Chinese President Xi Jinping and his goal of "reunification" between the two territories.

Taiwan’s independence has also been a flashpoint in the strained relations between the U.S. and China, particularly over the island’s booming semiconductor industry.

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