Name? Nancy Pelosi
Westphalian identity? US American
Age? 82
Why is he in the news? United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, third in line to the US Presidency, is reportedly thinking about travelling to Taiwan. This would make her the highest-ranking US official to travel there since 1997.
Why do we care? Usually, we do not care about unconfirmed travel plans, however, Pelosi’s potential trip has already caused a lot of attention and reactions. Apparently, Biden’s office is working behind the scenes to stop Pelosi over diplomatic and security concerns. Biden’s upcoming phone call with China’s President Xi to calm tensions is especially at risk. Meanwhile, the US military has plans available to increase its presence in the indo-pacific in case Pelosi decides to go. All of this comes during times of already high tensions and increased Chinese military presence around Taiwan.
Why should you care? Except for the drama, there is no other reason for you to care more than 2/10 about Pelosi’s maybe-yes-maybe-no trip.
Who else cares? Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian warned that China would take “firm and resolute measures” if Pelosi went ahead with her visit. China was already outraged back in April when six US lawmakers visited the island unannounced.
Any further comments? It seems like Speaker Pelosi has a thing for these dramatic gestures. During an official visit in 1991, Pelosi took the chance to take a picture at Tiananmen Square, making the Chinese furious. This announcement causes even more trouble. If Pelosi backs down, the Administration appears to back down from China; and Republicans, who prefer a more aggressive approach to China, would have another reason to attack the Democratic party ahead of the November midterm elections. If Pelosi goes ahead with her visit this will heighten the already existing tensions. Given, especially, that Xi is hoping to solidify his control over the state party by taking power for an unprecedented third term and cannot appear weak.
