Japan Election 2026: Takaichi’s LDP Wins Historic Supermajority

Tokyo / New Delhi: Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has led her ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner to a decisive victory in the country’s general election.

Public broadcaster NHK and major media outlets reported that the LDP, on its own, was projected to capture between about 274 and 328 seats, comfortably above the 233 needed for a simple majority. In combination with its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), the ruling bloc was projected to win at least 310 seats or more – crossing the two‑thirds supermajority threshold for the first time in years. 

This level of parliamentary control gives Takaichi extraordinary legislative leverage, including the ability to override upper house objections and potentially advance constitutional discussions and major policy reforms. 

The results reflect a resurgence of support for the LDP under Takaichi’s leadership after turbulent years marked by scandals and waning popularity under previous LDP leadership. The prime minister, who became leader of the party and prime minister in October 2025, successfully campaigned on a mix of economic stimulus measures, tax relief promises and a robust national security agenda. 

Among her key pledges were a temporary suspension of the 8 % consumption tax on food and increased spending on strategic national industries and defence policies designed to address the cost of living crisis and counter regional geopolitical pressures. 

The opposition including the newly formed Centrist Reform Alliance failed to present a unified front, with internal divisions and late formation hurting its performance and contributing to significant losses. A fragmented opposition landscape helped the ruling bloc consolidate support across multiple constituencies.

World leaders quickly responded to the news. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Takaichi on her “significant victory,” saying Japan‑India relations would likely deepen under her leadership. 

In Washington, U.S. officials – including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent – praised the election outcome, describing Takaichi and her government as strong allies in the Indo‑Pacific.