The failed recall campaign in Taiwan will likely prompt continued political gridlock, raising important questions for U.S.-Taiwan and cross-Strait relations.

The result is a blow to President Lai Ching-te's Democratic Progressive Party, which missed an opportunity to reshape the legislature and regain its majority.

The bitterly fought campaign reflects sharp infighting in Taiwanese ruling circles fuelled by the intensifying US-led drive to war against China, in which Taiwan is the central flashpoint.