Japan's Snap Election: A Risky Bet by PM Takaichi

Mon Feb 09 2026 00:59:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Sanae Takaichi, Japan's first female Prime Minister, calls a snap election to seek public support, aiming for a decisive victory amidst economic challenges.

In a bold move, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has called for a snap election, just months after taking office. With her party expected to reclaim control, Takaichi's push for tax cuts sparks debate as voters question the sustainability of her policies. Despite early voting setbacks, her popularity, particularly among younger voters, may sway the election in her favor. However, the opposition is more unified than ever, presenting significant challenges ahead. The election could be a defining moment for Takaichi as she follows in the footsteps of past leaders advocating strong national policies.

Millions in Japan are voting in a snap election called by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, whose coalition is predicted to clinch a decisive win. Just months after she was elected by lawmakers, Takaichi decided to go to the polls to seek the public's mandate. Polls show her Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) coalition with the populist Japanese Innovation Party could bag up to 300 of the 465 seats in the Lower House, marking a turnaround for the LDP which lost control of both chambers of Japan's parliament last year. The conservative leader has won over some voters by offering tax cuts and subsidies, but critics say these will deal a heavy blow to Japan's sluggish economy. Almost 4.6 million people had cast early ballots as of a week ago, down 2.5% from the previous election in 2024, with the decline attributed to heavy snow in the northern and western regions. Observers say Takaichi's personal popularity may help boost the LDP's showing in this election. An admirer of former UK leader Margaret Thatcher, Takaichi has pursued the ambition of becoming Japan's 'Iron Lady', advocating strong defense and nationalist policies. Surprisingly popular among voters aged 18 to 30, she has garnered 2.6 million followers on social media. However, the snap election is risky, with a more unified opposition and challenges regarding the party's past scandals and economic policies.