Washington – U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday claimed credit for the landslide victory secured by Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in the recent House of Representatives election held on .
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump stated that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who also serves as president of the LDP, had attributed her party’s success to his endorsement. “That’s very good because we have a great relationship with her and Japan,” Trump added, according to reports.
The claim follows a social media post made by Trump during the campaign period, in which he offered his “complete and total endorsement” of Takaichi. The endorsement appears to have resonated with the Japanese electorate, contributing to the LDP’s historic win – securing a two-thirds supermajority in the lower house of parliament, a feat not achieved by a single party since the end of World War II.
Takaichi herself acknowledged Trump’s support in a post on X (formerly Twitter) the day after the election, stating in English, “I am sincerely grateful to President Donald J. Trump for his warm words.”
The LDP’s resounding victory marks a significant turnaround for the party, which has faced headwinds in recent years. The party experienced setbacks in the Japanese general election and the Japanese House of Councillors election, losing its majority in both chambers of the Diet. These losses were attributed to a number of factors, including persistent inflation, political scandals, and a perception among some voters that the LDP had become too complacent and out of touch.
Sanae Takaichi’s rise to power and subsequent electoral success represent a deliberate effort by the LDP to revitalize its image and reconnect with voters. She became president of the LDP following the resignation of Shigeru Ishiba on , a move prompted by internal party divisions and growing calls for a snap election. Takaichi previously ran for the LDP leadership in , , and before finally securing the position.
The scale of the LDP’s victory – the strongest majority for a Japanese government since World War II – provides Takaichi with a substantial mandate to pursue her policy agenda. Details of that agenda remain to be fully articulated, but Takaichi is widely described as a conservative figure who has sought to appeal to younger voters and inject fresh energy into Japanese politics. Her success in doing so is a notable shift in a political landscape traditionally dominated by older, male politicians.
The relationship between Japan and the United States is a cornerstone of regional security and economic stability in East Asia. Trump’s vocal support for Takaichi and the LDP underscores the importance the U.S. Places on maintaining a strong alliance with Japan. The timing of Trump’s claim of credit is particularly noteworthy, coming as it does amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, including the complex relationship between China and Japan. The period has seen a notable China–Japan diplomatic crisis, adding further weight to the importance of a stable and reliable partnership between Tokyo and Washington.
While the extent of Trump’s influence on the Japanese election outcome is difficult to quantify, his endorsement undoubtedly provided a boost to Takaichi’s campaign. The Japanese Prime Minister’s public expression of gratitude further highlights the close ties between the two leaders. The implications of this strengthened relationship for regional dynamics and international trade remain to be seen, but the election result signals a potential shift in Japan’s foreign policy orientation.
The LDP’s victory also comes after a period of internal turmoil and self-reflection within the party. The party has been working to address concerns about its aging membership and its perceived disconnect from the concerns of younger generations. Takaichi’s success in mobilizing young voters suggests that she has tapped into a desire for change and a willingness to embrace new leadership. The election results suggest a rejection of the more centrist approaches of previous LDP administrations and a move towards a more assertive and conservative stance.
The election also sets the stage for the general election, where Takaichi will seek to consolidate her power and continue to implement her policy agenda. With a commanding majority in the lower house, she is well-positioned to do so, but she will still face challenges from opposition parties and from within her own party. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Takaichi can deliver on her promises and maintain the momentum that propelled her to power.
