Landslide victory for the LDP
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is on track for a sweeping win in Sunday’s snap elections, with early estimates suggesting her ruling bloc has secured a two-thirds majority in the lower house. If confirmed, this would be the Liberal Democratic Party’s strongest showing since 2017 under her mentor, the late Shinzo Abe. Media projections indicate the LDP could capture around 300 of 465 seats, up from 198, giving the party the possibility of a super-majority even without its junior partner, the Japan Innovation Party.
“We received voter support for Prime Minister Takaichi’s proactive fiscal policies and efforts to strengthen national defence,” said LDP Secretary General Shunichi Suzuki. Meanwhile, the main opposition alliance—the Centrist Reform Alliance of the Constitutional Democratic Party and Komeito—lost significant ground, while the anti-immigration Sanseito party saw modest gains.
Rebuilding trust at home
Takaichi, 64, has revived the LDP’s popularity after previous setbacks caused by rising costs and corruption scandals. Known for her unconventional background as a heavy metal drummer and a long-time conservative in the party, she has won over voters, particularly younger demographics, since becoming Japan’s first female prime minister last October.
Her campaign focused on economic relief, including a $135 billion stimulus to combat inflation and a pledge to suspend the consumption tax on food. But challenges remain: Japan’s public debt exceeds twice the size of its economy, and long-term bond yields have recently reached record highs, raising concerns among global investors.
A cautious eye on China
Takaichi’s victory also raises regional tensions. Shortly after taking office, the premier—known for her hawkish stance on China—hinted that Japan might intervene militarily if Beijing attempted to seize Taiwan. Her remarks angered China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, prompting the country to summon Tokyo’s ambassador, issue travel warnings, conduct joint military exercises with Russia, and even request the return of Japan’s last two pandas.
As Takaichi prepares to consolidate her power at home, she will need to balance domestic expectations for economic stability with careful navigation of increasingly tense relations in East Asia.
