White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said, “The United States supports universal suffrage in Hong Kong in accordance with the Basic Law and [supports] the aspirations of the Hong Kong people.
“We believe that an open society with the highest possible degree of autonomy and governed by the rule of law is essential for Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. Indeed, this is what has made Hong Kong such a successful and truly global city to this point.”
“The United States urges the Hong Kong authorities to exercise restraint and for protestors to express their views peacefully.”
“We believe that the legitimacy of the Chief Executive in Hong Kong will be enhanced if the Basic Law's ultimate aim of selection of the Chief Executive by universal suffrage is fulfilled and if the election provides the people of Hong Kong a genuine choice of candidates that are representative of the people's and the voters' will.”
