Singapore votes with new PM seeking strong mandate amid tariff turmoil

Singaporeans headed to the polls on Saturday in a key election that marks the first major political test for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The vote comes at a time of economic uncertainty for the trade-dependent city-state, and while Wong’s ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) is widely expected to retain its parliamentary majority, the opposition is showing renewed strength.

Polling stations opened at 8 a.m., with voting set to continue for 12 hours. Initial results are expected to be released around midnight. This election is significant for Wong, who gained popularity for co-leading Singapore’s Covid-19 task force and assumed the role of prime minister last year, succeeding Lee Hsien Loong—the son of Singapore’s founding leader, Lee Kuan Yew.

Wong has emphasized the importance of securing a strong mandate from voters, especially as Singapore faces economic headwinds linked to global trade disruptions, including tariffs introduced by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Wong warned that Singapore could suffer economically if such tariffs persist, particularly those targeting China. He urged voters to back stability and long-term planning. “This is not a gamble,” he said. “This is your family, your future, our Singapore.”

Despite the global economic backdrop, analysts believe voters will prioritize domestic concerns. Political expert Nydia Ngiow noted that Singaporean elections typically focus on local issues, and geopolitical tensions may only influence votes if they directly affect daily life, such as job security or the cost of living.

Although the PAP’s dominance in Singapore’s 97-seat parliament is almost guaranteed, observers believe any gains by the opposition would be meaningful. A younger and increasingly vocal electorate may help shift the political landscape, particularly in constituencies where young voters are more open to alternative viewpoints. “Young voters will be a factor in some wards,” said veteran political analyst P.N. Balji.

The opposition, led by the Workers’ Party (WP), is hoping to build on its historic performance in the 2020 election, when it captured 10 of 93 contested seats—more than doubling its previous total. The WP has sharpened its image and fielded charismatic candidates, including high-profile professionals, drawing large crowds during the campaign.

However, as seen in previous elections, big crowds don’t always translate to votes. Still, the WP has struck a chord with voters by criticizing recent government moves, such as the hike in goods and services tax during a period of high inflation. They argue that more opposition voices in parliament are necessary to hold the PAP accountable and prevent unchecked governance.

In its defense, the PAP highlights the billions of Singapore dollars spent to assist citizens with rising costs, including through direct cash transfers and grocery vouchers. The ruling party maintains that its financial support has helped mitigate inflation’s impact on everyday Singaporeans.

Roughly 2.75 million Singaporeans are eligible to vote in this election, which will determine the makeup of the 97-seat parliament.