Tokyo, Japan – U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday congratulated Sanae Takaichi on her coalition’s victory in Japan’s recent snap elections, a win that has positioned her as the country’s first female leader. The endorsement, delivered via Trump’s social media platform Truth Social, marks what observers are calling a significant moment in U.S.-Japan relations and comes amid rising regional tensions.
The congratulatory message, issued on , lauded Takaichi as a “highly respected and very popular leader” and praised her “bold and wise decision” to call for early elections. Trump also claimed the victory was the largest in Japan since World War II, though he did not provide supporting evidence for this assertion.
“It was my honor to endorse you,” Trump wrote, wishing Takaichi “Great Success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength Agenda.” He further stated that the “wonderful people of Japan, who voted with such enthusiasm, will always have my strong support.”
Takaichi responded with gratitude, reaffirming the strength of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, which she described as “limitless.” She also indicated plans for a visit to the White House later this year, signaling a continued commitment to close diplomatic ties. Prior to the election results, Trump had already publicly praised Takaichi as a “strong and patriotic leader.”
The election outcome grants Takaichi’s coalition a two-thirds supermajority in the legislature, a level of control unseen in Japan since the end of World War II, according to Trump’s assessment. This substantial mandate provides Takaichi with considerable political capital to pursue her agenda, which includes promised tax cuts and increased military spending. The proposed economic reforms, however, have already begun to generate concern within financial markets.
The timing of Trump’s congratulatory message is noteworthy. It arrives as regional tensions continue to escalate, particularly concerning China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Takaichi’s commitment to a “Peace Through Strength” agenda aligns with the Trump administration’s own foreign policy principles, suggesting a potential for closer security cooperation between the two nations.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent echoed this sentiment, stating that a strong Japan is vital to America’s position in Asia. This underscores the strategic importance the U.S. Places on its alliance with Japan as a counterbalance to China’s expanding military and economic power.
Beyond the United States, other world leaders have also extended their congratulations to Takaichi. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Takaichi, expressing confidence that the relationship between India and Japan would reach “greater heights” under her leadership. Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim acknowledged the strong mandate as a reflection of public confidence in Takaichi’s vision for economic renewal, and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed hope for continued engagement and “shuttle diplomacy” between their nations.
Takaichi’s victory marks a significant shift in Japanese politics. As the first female leader of Japan, she breaks a long-standing barrier in a country traditionally dominated by male politicians. Her rise to power comes at a critical juncture, as Japan grapples with an aging population, economic stagnation, and increasing geopolitical challenges.
During a visit to Malaysia in October 2025, prior to assuming the premiership, Takaichi demonstrated “genuine commitment and enthusiasm” on issues of mutual concern, including economic resilience, the green transition, and maritime security, according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This suggests a proactive approach to regional cooperation and a willingness to address shared challenges.
The scale of Takaichi’s victory – described as a “landslide” by multiple sources – has surprised some analysts, who had predicted a closer contest. Her success is attributed to a combination of factors, including her strong conservative platform, her promise of economic reforms, and the perceived need for strong leadership in the face of growing regional instability.
The coming months will be crucial as Takaichi begins to implement her agenda and navigate the complex challenges facing Japan. The strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance, and the continued support of key regional partners, will be vital to her success. The international community will be watching closely to see how Takaichi’s leadership shapes Japan’s role on the global stage.
