Sanae Takaichi poised for big win as snow-hit Japan votes

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by ReutersFebruary 8, 2026 at 02:00 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Japanese voters cast ballots in an election expected to give Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's conservative coalition a significant victory. The election, held in winter amid record snowfall in some areas, is projected to award the coalition over 300 of the 465 lower house seats. A win of 310 seats would allow the coalition, comprised of Takaichi's Liberal Democratic Party and the Japan Innovation Party, to override the upper chamber. Takaichi, who became prime minister in October, sought a mandate from voters, campaigning on increased military spending to counter China and economic stimulus measures. She has stated she will step down if the coalition loses its majority.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

China 50% Japan Innovation Party (Ishin) 60% Liberal Democratic Party ×270% Japan 80% Sanae Takaichi ×690%

Keywords

election 100% sanae takaichi 90% conservative coalition 80% liberal democratic party 70% parliament 60% economic stimulus 50% military spending 50% japan innovation party 40% snowfall 40%