When Election Day ended in Taiwan the local and foreign media, pundits, and others almost in unison reported Vice President Lai and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party won handily, democracy had prevailed, and China (which opposed Lai and interfered in the campaign) lost, and the scene might escalate into conflict and even war.

But the election and Taiwan’s politics are considerably more complicated than this.

Vice President Lai Ching-te, representing the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, indeed won the popular vote. The other two contestants immediately acknowledged defeat. With some caveats it was a clear victory for Lai.

Lai was aided by unity in the ruling party and the support of President Tsai Ing-wen. She could not run for reelection owing to term limits and named Lai her successor. He was also advantaged by a stellar reputation for handling affairs in offices he had held up to this time. In addition, he is good looking: photogenic and owns the appearance of someone young and energetic. Finally, he inspired voters during the campaign and handled issues deftly.

Last but not least, Lai’s vice-presidential running mate, Hsiao Bi-khim, had just left the position of Taiwan’s diplomatic representative to the United States where she had made friends and built a fine reputation. The two were a good match.

Hou You-yi was the candidate of the Nationalist Party (or Kuomintang, KMT) He had a background in law enforcement and dealing with security matters. Recently he was the most popular among Taiwan’s six metropolitan mayors. He appealed to residents concerned about crime and........

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