Just eight months ago, Japan's ruling party appeared on the brink of electoral disaster, having lost a parliamentary majority for the second time in 15 months amid a slush fund scandal. But as voters prepare for Sunday's lower house elections, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is expected to secure a resounding victory, largely thanks to one woman: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
Takaichi, Japan's first female prime minister, took office in October after the LDP's conservative wing forced a leadership election. She has since become the object of a personality cult, with fans obsessing over her outfits, snacks, and the pink pen she uses in parliament. Her social media savvy has drawn young voters, with her official X account amassing over 2.6 million followers.
Opinion polls suggest the LDP and its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party, will win more than 300 of the 465 lower house seats, securing a two-thirds majority. The main opposition Centrist Reform Alliance braces for heavy losses. Takaichi has met with Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, and South Korea's president, and has sparked controversy over Taiwan and tax cuts.
Despite her ultra-conservative stance on issues like female emperors and married surnames, Takaichi's modest upbringing and direct communication style resonate with voters. At a recent Tokyo rally, she spoke of her parents—a police officer mother and car company employee father—and addressed everyday concerns. Supporters praise her energy and decisiveness.
Her $900 black leather handbag has sold out, and her favourite snacks are in high demand. Takaichi has been seen smiling with US troops, playing drums with South Korea's president, and singing to Italy's Giorgia Meloni, cementing her image as a 'commoner prime minister' who breaks the mould of Japan's hereditary male politicians.
