Takaichi is poised to push Japan further to the right.

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 7 min read 100% complete by Javier C. HernándezFebruary 8, 2026 at 02:52 PM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Sanae Takaichi, a 64-year-old politician, has been elected as Japan's prime minister, marking a historic moment as the first woman to hold the position. Takaichi, a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and a protégé of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, is expected to shift Japan further to the right with policies focused on national strength and cultural preservation. She has advocated for a stronger stance against China, a revisionist view of World War II history, and stricter immigration controls. Takaichi's election comes at a time of uncertainty in Japan's relationship with the United States, and she is scheduled to meet with Donald Trump in Tokyo to discuss these issues. Her leadership will be tested as she navigates Japan's military and economic alliance with the U.S.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

China 30% Yoshiko Sakurai 30% Margaret Thatcher 30% World War II 30% Nara Prefecture 40% Donald Trump ×260% Liberal Democratic Party 60% United States ×260% Shinzo Abe 70% Japan ×890% Sanae Takaichi ×895%

Keywords

sanae takaichi 100% japanese politics 90% prime minister 80% right-wing 70% liberal democratic party 60% us-japan alliance 50% shinzo abe 50% traditionalist 40% hawkish policies 40%