Cook Islands Election Too Close to Call Amid China Debate

Cook Islands voters are choosing their leaders in a race too close to call. Prime Minister Mark Brown backs a partnership with China and says the economy grew 10% while debt shrank by half. Rival Teariki Heather wants more openness and a stronger bond with New Zealand, tied to the islands since 1965. Brown survived a challenge over the China deal in February 2025; New Zealand ties were repaired in April 2026.