Last-minute attempt by Taiwan's opposition parties to form a coalition for the presidential election collapses, impacting U.S.-China relations.
The deal between the Nationalist Party (Kuomintang) and Taiwan People's Party unravels immediately after its announcement.
At a press conference, candidates from both parties exchange veiled insults and the deal officially falls apart.
Kuomintang's nominee, Hou Yu-ih, and Taiwan People's Party candidate, Ko Wen-je, separately register for the election, confirming the failure of the coalition.
Vice President Lai Ching-te, nominee of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, maintains a lead in the polls and follows a policy of maintaining the status quo in relations with China.
Foxconn founder Terry Gou, another opposition candidate, decides not to register, likely pleasing Beijing, but his withdrawal is not expected to significantly impact the race.
The opposition parties' deal collapses due to disagreements on how to decide the order of their candidates on the combined ticket.
Political analysts express surprise at the concessions made by Ko in the deal, and the chaos during a public meeting among opposition candidates is described as one of the most dramatically silly moments in Taiwan's history.
The ruling Democratic Progressive Party faces challenges in holding its legislative majority, potentially resulting in a split government complicating relations with the U.S. and China.