Singapore’s Wong Holds Onto Power as Ruling People’s Action Party Increases Vote Share in Resounding Win

Sure! Here’s the revised content without any promotional call-to-actions or mentions of external websites:

—

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong of the People’s Action Party (PAP) waves to supporters as he celebrates at the party’s gathering center during the general election results, in Singapore on May 3, 2025. Singapore’s ruling party is headed for a decisive victory at the general elections, with early counts showing voters giving Prime Minister Lawrence Wong the clear mandate he sought.

Singapore’s ruling People Action Party returned to power in a landslide victory in the country’s 14th general election, reinstating Lawrence Wong as prime minister at a time when trade turmoil has affected global markets. The PAP secured 87 seats in the 97-seat parliament, while the main opposition Workers Party retained its 10 seats in an election characterized by a record-low turnout of 92.47%. Voting in Singapore is compulsory for citizens over 21.

Votes were cast for 92 seats, following the PAP’s acquisition of five seats in a walkover on Nomination Day on April 23. The ruling party also increased its vote share, receiving 65.57% of the national vote compared to 61.2% in the 2020 election. This election marked Wong’s first as prime minister and was dominated by discussions on cost of living, employment, and economic growth. Wong is the first PAP leader to enhance the party’s vote share in his first election; the PAP’s vote share had previously declined in 1991 and 2006 during changes in leadership.

Wong, who serves as finance minister, succeeded Lee Hsien Loong in May 2024. Lee currently acts as Senior Minister in Wong’s cabinet. The PAP has governed Singapore since 1959, following the British granting full self-government. Singapore gained independence in 1965.

In his remarks after the election, Wong expressed that he was “deeply humbled and grateful for the results,” noting that “Singaporeans have given the PAP a clear and strong mandate to govern.” He added, “The results will put Singapore in a better position to face this turbulent world. Many are watching the elections closely; it’s a clear signal of trust, stability, and confidence in your government.”

Early on Sunday morning, the U.S. State Department congratulated Wong on the PAP’s victory and expressed anticipation for close collaboration with the new government to enhance economic growth and defense ties. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also acknowledged the EU’s valuable cooperation with Singapore, stating, “Our partnership is deepening in trade and investment, and in defense, security, and innovation.”

The election comes as Singapore faces slowing economic growth and an uncertain trade environment. In April, Singapore downgraded its GDP growth forecast to 0%-2%, prompting the country’s monetary authority to ease policy twice this year. The first-quarter GDP was below expectations, recorded at 3.8%. Wong had previously warned of a potential recession in 2025 and established a task force led by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong in April to assist businesses and workers in navigating the immediate challenges presented by U.S. tariffs and global developments.

Gan recently held discussions with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, indicating Singapore’s pursuit of concessions for pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. and efforts to strengthen export controls on high-end AI chips. He noted that the 10% baseline tariff imposed by the previous administration was regarded as an “umbrella” and was unlikely to be open for negotiation, despite Singapore having a trade deficit with the U.S. and a free trade agreement since 2004.

—

Let me know if you need any further modifications!