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

The failure of the recalls does not reflect a re-evaluation of cross-strait policy preferences. But it does send a clear message to both the DPP and the KMT.

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.