Taiwan's president used the National Day speech to call for unity ahead of the November local elections — a steadying message aimed at voters and at Beijing alike.

• Lai Ching-te told the crowd outside the Presidential Office that parties can compete and people can disagree, but Taiwan itself should not be split apart.
• He urged voters in the Nov. 28 local elections to pick candidates on merit and refuse threats or bribes — a nod to worries about outside pressure on the vote.
• His speech framed Taiwan as a "city on a hill," arguing the island shines not because it lacks disagreement but because it respects rules and each other.
• He said presidential power is a trust from the people, and promised practical governance plus a firm defense posture to help keep the peace.

Outlook: Expect unity and election-integrity to stay Lai's main themes as the Nov. 28 campaign heats up.