Singapore PAP wins strong majority in May 2025 election amid economic concerns
Singapore held its general election on May 3, 2025, with the ruling People's Action Party winning 87 of 97 parliamentary seats and 65.57 percent of the popular vote, up from 61.24 percent in 2020. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's victory marked his first election as party leader. The opposition Workers' Party retained all 10 of its seats. Voter turnout reached 92.83 percent, the lowest since 1968. The election occurred amid economic headwinds including rising living costs, inflation concerns, and reduced growth forecasts due to U.S. tariffs affecting Singapore's trade-dependent economy. No other opposition parties won seats, leaving Parliament with only two political parties represented. The PAP's increased vote share reversed a five-year trend of declining support following the party's 2020 near-record low.
Key facts
- PAP won 87 of 97 directly elected seats on May 3, 2025
- PAP vote share increased to 65.57 percent from 61.24 percent in 2020
- Workers' Party retained 10 seats plus 2 non-constituency seats
- Voter turnout was 92.83 percent, lowest since 1968
- Growth forecast downgraded to 0-2 percent from 1-3 percent due to U.S. tariffs
- Cost of living identified as primary voter concern in pre-election surveys
- Lawrence Wong's first election as PAP leader and prime minister
- Only PAP and Workers' Party won seats; 11 other parties and 2 independents lost
How different outlets framed it
Left-leaning coverage: Left-leaning and progressive observers note that rising cost of living remains voters' primary concern, with at least 30 percent of Singaporeans reporting they do not earn enough for a decent standard of living. Critics argue the PAP's economic strategy, including GST hikes, has driven up costs, and point to growing inequality with concerns about wealth disparities and inadequate government support measures. The opposition Workers' Party campaigned on accountability and democracy, calling for GST exemptions on essentials and stronger social protections.
Right-leaning coverage: Conservative and business-focused observers highlight that the PAP's strong mandate provides leadership continuity and reassures investors in Singapore's economic model. The result reinforces regulatory predictability and business confidence. Right-leaning commentary emphasizes Wong's argument that opposition expansion could create instability during trade tensions, and that the PAP's historical track record managing crises justifies voter confidence in navigating current global economic headwinds.
Limits of this briefing
Analysis relies on English-language sources and may not fully capture perspectives from non-English media or grassroots Singaporean voices. The PAP's institutional communication advantages and media landscape may shape available commentary.
Sources
- Yahoo News Singapore: Singapore General Election results; PM Lawrence Wong's PAP wins strong mandate Centre
- Asia Society Policy Institute: Singapore's Ruling Party Wins, but the Opposition Is Here to Stay Centre
- China-Briefing: Singapore's 2025 Election: Signals for Foreign Investors Right
- Foreign Policy: Why Singapore's Ruling Party Won Yet Again Left
- APCO Worldwide: Singapore After GE2025: The Beginning of Managed Pluralism Centre