Japan’s snap election, called by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, unfolded against a backdrop of persistent economic anxieties, particularly concerning the rising cost of living. While national defense emerged as a concern for some voters, the immediate pressures on household budgets dominated sentiment, potentially influencing the outcome and shaping the policy agenda for the coming term.
The election pits Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) coalition against the Centrist Reform Alliance. Takaichi, who assumed leadership in October 2025, has attempted to frame cost-of-living issues as central to her campaign, but faces headwinds from a broader trend of stagnant wages failing to keep pace with inflation. Data indicates that inflation-adjusted wages fell for the eleventh consecutive month in November, declining by 2.8 percent, according to Japanese government figures.
The surge in food prices is particularly acute. Rice, a staple of the Japanese diet, has seen prices increase nearly 68 percent year-on-year, driven by poor harvests in . Imported goods, including coffee and chocolate, have also become more expensive due to the weakening yen, eroding consumer purchasing power. A survey conducted by public broadcaster NHK last month revealed that 45 percent of respondents prioritized measures to curb prices as the most important factor in their voting decision.
The financial strain is palpable for many Japanese households. Kanako Himura, a voter interviewed by the BBC, described a weekly grocery bill that has consistently increased, even as quantities purchased decrease. “I used to spend about 10,000 yen ($64; £47) a week on groceries,” she said. “Now it’s always more. Prices are rising, quantities are shrinking. Even when the price stays the same, you get less.” This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety about affordability, extending beyond food to encompass essential goods and services.
Beyond immediate household expenses, concerns about property prices are also weighing on voters. Kento Naka, a 35-year-old manga artist, noted that Tokyo property prices have risen while income has remained stagnant. This disparity highlights a longer-term challenge of economic inequality and limited wage growth, particularly impacting younger generations.
While economic concerns are paramount, national defense also factored into voter considerations. Naoaki Yuhara, an 85-year-old voter, emphasized the importance of national security, particularly for future generations. However, Prime Minister Takaichi’s hawkish stance on defense elicited concerns from some voters, like Haruka, who expressed worries about potential increases in military spending, potentially including nuclear weapons, and the risk of future conflict.
The LDP’s potential for a significant victory also prompted some reservations. Naohisa Komiyama, a 42-year-old voter, expressed concern about the implications of an overwhelming LDP majority, fearing a stifling of dissenting opinions and a potential for complacency and arrogance within the ruling party. This suggests a desire for a degree of political balance and accountability, even among those who generally support the LDP.
The election results, while not detailed in the provided sources, will likely dictate the government’s response to these pressing economic concerns. The focus on curbing inflation, addressing wage stagnation, and mitigating the impact of the weakening yen will be critical. The extent to which the government prioritizes these issues alongside its defense agenda remains to be seen. The outcome will also signal whether voters are willing to accept potentially difficult trade-offs between economic relief and increased military spending.
The broader implications extend beyond domestic policy. Japan’s economic health has global ramifications, particularly given its role as a major exporter and investor. A sustained period of economic weakness could dampen global growth and contribute to further inflationary pressures. The government’s ability to navigate these challenges will be closely watched by international markets and policymakers.
The election underscores a critical juncture for Japan, balancing immediate economic needs with long-term strategic considerations. The concerns voiced by voters – rising prices, stagnant wages, and anxieties about the future – represent a significant challenge for the incoming government, demanding a comprehensive and responsive policy approach.
