Pacific nation Palau begins voting Tuesday in a presidential election dominated by cost of living worries, China meddling claims, and the expanding military footprint of the United States.

Overview of Palaus Presidential Election Palau, a Pacific Islands nation vital to U.S. military interests amid rising tensions with China, is holding a national presidential election on Tuesday. President

Palau’s largest newspaper is being sued for defamation by the company of President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s father, just days ahead of general elections in the Pacific nation.

Polls opened Tuesday in the Pacific nation Palau, which is voting in a presidential election dominated by cost-of-living worries, China meddling claims, and the expanding military footprint of the United States.