Takaichi’s Ruling Conservatives on Course for Landslide Victory in Japan Snap Election

Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, is on course for a landslide victory in the country’s snap lower-house election, according to exit polls and early projections.

Estimates from major media outlets indicate the LDP is set to comfortably exceed the 233 seats required for a majority in the 465-member House of Representatives. Projections suggest the party could win between about 271 and more than 300 seats, with some forecasts placing the total as high as 328 seats—one of the strongest performances in recent decades.

Together with its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, the ruling bloc is expected to secure a commanding majority and potentially a two-thirds supermajority in the lower house. Such a result would give the government significant legislative power and the ability to advance major policy initiatives with limited opposition.

Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, called the snap election only months after taking office, framing it as a public mandate on her leadership and policy direction. Her campaign emphasized conservative economic policies, tax relief measures, increased defense spending, and a tougher stance on regional security issues.

Analysts say the projected victory reflects strong support for Takaichi’s leadership style and policy agenda, as well as the fragmented state of opposition forces. The election took place under difficult winter conditions, with snowfall and relatively low turnout reported in some areas.

If confirmed, the result would restore the LDP’s single-party majority and consolidate Takaichi’s political authority, allowing her government to pursue ambitious economic and security reforms over the coming years.

Sources: The Guardian, Financial Times, Associated Press, Reuters