America’s advanced industries—including auto manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, clean energy generation, and digital services—are struggling. Workforce issues are a core reason why. The semiconductor industry, and the advanced sector more broadly, face challenges securing the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) professionals and technicians they need.

Fortunately, leaders across the country have an opportunity to address the problem. Within the $250 billion CHIPS and Science Act, there are 35 programs that support STEM-related education, training, and outreach in at least some way. Martha Ross and Mark Muro provide a detailed overview in a new report.

Taiwan’s upcoming presidential election

With Taiwan holding a highly consequential election on January 13, experts outline the priorities of Taiwan’s citizens and the potential international ramifications. 

The stakes. In a quick primer, Richard C. Bush lays out the horse race, concerns of Taiwan’s voters, and how the outcome may impact the country’s relations with China and the United States.

Key issues. The main theme of the election in Taiwan is economic issues, particularly those closely associated with people’s daily lives, writes Ching-hsin Yu.

An American perspective. “Washington’s interest is not in being an exciting participant or critical variable in Taiwan’s election outcome. It is in standing back, pushing back on any outside interference by others, giving the people of Taiwan space to decide, and then carrying forward the relationship with whoever they elect,” argues Ryan Hass in the Taipei Times.