How Singapore's PAP won a significant victory

[SINGAPORE] Singapore’s People’s Action Party (PAP) has clinched a resounding victory in the 2025 general election, reinforcing its six-decade rule and handing Prime Minister Lawrence Wong a robust mandate to steer the city-state through a turbulent global landscape. The election, held against a backdrop of economic anxiety and escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, saw the PAP increase its share of the popular vote and parliamentary seats, while the opposition Workers’ Party (WP) maintained its position as the main alternative voice.

The PAP’s victory was particularly pronounced in suburban heartland constituencies, where middle-class families—traditionally a swing demographic—voiced strong support for the government’s recent measures to curb inflation and expand childcare subsidies. Exit polls indicated that these policies, coupled with Wong’s relatable public persona, resonated with voters who prioritized pragmatic solutions over ideological debates.

Analysts attribute the PAP’s improved performance to widespread concerns over the cost of living, job security, and Singapore’s economic resilience amid global instability. Many voters, particularly older generations, opted for continuity and stability, citing fears over inflation, stagnant wages, and the potential fallout from U.S. tariffs on trade-dependent Singapore.

Notably, the election saw record voter turnout in newly developed housing estates, where younger families grappled with rising mortgage rates. The PAP’s pledge to accelerate public housing construction and stabilize property prices appeared to strike a chord, though opposition candidates gained marginal traction by criticizing delays in infrastructure projects and overcrowding in schools.

“The voters have spoken, and they have opted for stability, continuity, and certainty - they have endorsed Prime Minister Lawrence Wong with a strong mandate,” said Mustafa Izzuddin, adjunct senior lecturer at the National University of Singapore.

Leadership Transition and Public Trust

This election marked Lawrence Wong’s first as prime minister and PAP leader, following his succession from Lee Hsien Loong last year. Wong described the result as a “clear signal of trust, stability and confidence in your government,” pledging to serve all Singaporeans “with humility and responsibility”.

Wong’s campaign notably avoided the polarizing rhetoric seen in past elections, instead focusing on unity and collective resilience. His emphasis on “quiet competence” and technocratic governance—a departure from his predecessors’ more assertive style—reportedly appealed to undecided voters wary of political theatrics.

Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasized the importance of a strong mandate, noting that Singaporeans “understood what was at stake” and rallied around the PAP to confront “immense challenges ahead”.

Opposition’s Performance and Political Landscape

While the Workers’ Party maintained its parliamentary presence, it failed to expand its influence, falling short in key battleground constituencies. The election results underscore the enduring dominance of the PAP, which has governed since before Singapore’s independence in 1965, and the challenges faced by opposition parties in a tightly regulated political environment.

The WP’s campaign, which centered on calls for greater parliamentary diversity and checks on executive power, struggled to counter the PAP’s narrative of economic stewardship. Internal party sources acknowledged that their messaging failed to cut through amid voter preoccupation with immediate financial concerns, though they vowed to regroup ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Some observers suggest that while the opposition’s growth has stalled, younger voters are increasingly seeking alternative viewpoints and more robust debate—a trend that could reshape Singapore’s political landscape in the longer term.

Economic Fears and International Context

The election unfolded as Singapore navigates economic headwinds from the ongoing U.S.-China trade conflict. The city-state, a global financial hub heavily reliant on trade, faces heightened risks from U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent tariff hikes. Prime Minister Wong highlighted these challenges, stating that the PAP’s renewed mandate would “put Singapore in a better position to face this turbulent world”.

Singapore’s export-reliant manufacturing sector, which accounts for nearly 20% of GDP, has already seen contractions in key markets. The government’s pre-election announcement of a S$1.5 billion industry support package—targeting small exporters and tech startups—may have softened voter anxieties, but analysts warn that prolonged trade tensions could test Wong’s economic team.

“Singapore is particularly exposed due to the scale of its economy and its vulnerability to international dynamics… we are known for being risk-averse voters,” noted Ian Chong, associate professor at the National University of Singapore.

U.S.-China Tensions: Chinese Ambassador’s Response

Amid the election, China’s ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, delivered pointed remarks on escalating trade tensions. Speaking in Washington, Xie criticized U.S. tariffs, stating, “Tariff hikes benefit no one. They disrupt businesses, raise costs, rattle financial markets and slow down global growth.” He emphasized that China did not initiate the tariff war and called for dialogue based on “equality, respect and reciprocity”.

Xie’s remarks coincided with a visit by Singaporean trade officials to Beijing, where both nations reaffirmed commitments to deepen supply-chain collaboration. Observers interpreted the timing as a subtle nod to Singapore’s delicate balancing act between its Western allies and largest trading partner, China—a dynamic Wong’s administration must now navigate with renewed domestic backing.

Xie reiterated that China seeks peaceful coexistence and mutual benefit, but warned that attempts to contain China—particularly through the Taiwan issue—would “only invite trouble” for the U.S..

International Reactions and Diplomatic Stakes

The United States congratulated Prime Minister Wong and the PAP, reaffirming the longstanding strategic partnership between the two nations and expressing intent to strengthen economic and security ties in the region. Multinational corporations and regional investors are closely monitoring Singapore’s political stability and economic policy direction as the trade war continues to cast uncertainty over Asia’s financial landscape.

Looking Ahead

With a fresh mandate, Prime Minister Wong’s government faces the immediate tasks of addressing cost-of-living pressures, housing shortages, and safeguarding Singapore’s economic interests amid global volatility. The decisive electoral outcome signals public confidence in the PAP’s ability to navigate these challenges, but also highlights the evolving expectations of Singapore’s electorate in an era of uncertainty and change.