Polls reflect discontent over Lai’s handling of recall votes, the response to Typhoon Danas and economic concerns linked to new US tariffs
Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te is grappling with his steepest decline in public support since taking office nearly 15 months ago, indicating challenges for his ruling party in next year’s local elections and the 2028 Taiwan leadership race.
Three major surveys – the latest released on Tuesday – showed continued sharp drops in approval for Lai, signalling trouble even in Tainan, his southern hometown and power base.
The Taiwanese Public Opinion Foundation (TPOF), TVBS cable news network and online news outlet My Formosa all reported approval ratings for the Lai administration in the low 30s or below, while disapproval hit the mid-50s.
Trust levels hovered around the mid-30s, while pessimism over Lai’s remaining three years in office was widespread.
