TOKYO – Sanae Takaichi was formally reappointed as Japan’s Prime Minister on , following a landslide election victory that positions her to pursue a more assertive foreign and domestic policy agenda. The reappointment comes with a renewed focus on strengthening ties with the United States, particularly in the realm of economic security and rare earths development, as well as a potential shift towards a more conservative social policy.
Takaichi, who first became Prime Minister in October, secured a significant two-thirds supermajority in the lower house of Japan’s parliament, granting her ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) considerable power to push through legislation. This dominance allows the LDP to overcome potential opposition in the upper house, where it does not hold a majority.
A Mandate for Change
The election outcome provides Takaichi with a clear mandate to implement her policy goals, which include bolstering Japan’s military capabilities, tightening immigration controls and revisiting traditional social norms. She has also signaled an intention to address economic challenges, including rising prices and a declining population.
One immediate priority is addressing the rising cost of living. Takaichi has proposed a two-year sales tax cut on food products, a measure intended to ease the financial burden on households. However, experts caution that such a policy could exacerbate Japan’s already substantial national debt.
Deepening US Ties and Economic Security
Central to Takaichi’s agenda is a strengthening of the relationship with the United States. She expressed her desire to deepen cooperation with Washington, particularly in areas related to economic security, during a news conference . This comes amid growing tensions between Tokyo and Beijing.
This commitment was underscored by a recent announcement of a $550 billion investment package pledged by Japan in October. The first phase of this investment, valued at $36 billion, will focus on projects including a natural gas plant in Ohio, a crude oil export facility on the U.S. Gulf Coast, and a synthetic diamond manufacturing site.
The U.S. President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Takaichi prior to the election, a rare instance of a U.S. Leader directly backing a candidate in a foreign election. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced Japan’s commitment to funding these initial projects just hours before Takaichi’s reappointment. Takaichi is scheduled to meet with Trump in Washington on .
A Hawkish Stance on China
Takaichi has adopted a firm stance towards China, even suggesting potential Japanese action if Beijing were to make a military move against Taiwan. This position has drawn criticism from Beijing, resulting in diplomatic and economic repercussions. However, it has resonated with many Japanese citizens concerned about China’s growing assertiveness.
She has also indicated a willingness to revisit a controversial visit to the Yasukuni Shrine, a site viewed by some neighboring countries as a symbol of Japan’s wartime aggression. A visit could further strain relations with China and South Korea.
Military Expansion and Security Policies
Takaichi aims to revise Japan’s security and defense policies by December, with a focus on bolstering military capabilities. This includes lifting a ban on the export of lethal weapons and moving away from the country’s post-war pacifist principles. Japan is also considering the development of a nuclear-powered submarine to enhance its offensive capabilities.
She also supports strengthening intelligence-gathering efforts and establishing a national agency to improve coordination with allies such as the United States, Australia, and Britain. She backs a controversial anti-espionage law, which some critics argue could infringe upon civil rights.
Social Conservatism and Traditional Values
Beyond foreign policy and defense, Takaichi is pursuing a socially conservative agenda. She supports maintaining the current male-only succession rules for the imperial family and opposes same-sex marriage. She also opposes revisions to civil law that would allow married couples to retain separate surnames, a move that would address concerns about gender inequality.
Instead of allowing separate surnames, Takaichi is advocating for a law that would allow women to more easily use their maiden names as aliases. This move has been criticized by rights activists who view it as an attempt to obstruct progress towards a more equitable system.
The coming months will be crucial for Takaichi as she navigates these complex challenges and seeks to implement her vision for Japan. Her success will depend on her ability to balance domestic concerns with the demands of a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape and maintain a strong working relationship with key allies, particularly the United States.
