TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — There is almost no difference between the Democratic and Republican parties in their commitment to Taiwan, according to Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ben Cardin. 

As the U.S. presidential election approaches in November, analysts have considered whether U.S. policy on Taiwan would be affected if there was a change of government. However, Democratic Senator Ben Cardin said the U.S. will continue providing Taiwan with diplomatic and security support, regardless of the outcome of the election. 

“Given the nature of the challenges facing Taiwan and the impact of these challenges on U.S. foreign policy, there is little disagreement between Democrats and Republicans on their commitment to Taiwan,” Cardin told CNA. 

"Indeed, Congress has been at the forefront of strengthening U.S. support for Taiwan's security, stability, and prosperity," the senator said. 

He cited the Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act passed by Congress in April, which includes US$2 billion (NT$64.7 billion) for a Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program for Taiwan and other partners, to show that U.S. efforts in the Indo-Pacific region are “partisan and lasting.”

"As was the case with the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act and subsequent legislation, the U.S. Congress will continue to play a central role in America's unwavering diplomatic, economic, and security support for Taiwan,” said Cardin. Congress will also continue to condemn China’s aggressive actions in the Taiwan Strait, he added. 

The senator said, “China's actions will only strengthen our determination to work with the government to ensure that Taiwan has the resources it needs for its defense.” 

Cardin did not respond to the question of whether the U.S. should send troops to defend Taiwan against an unprovoked attack by Beijing.