Japan's 'Iron Lady' Takaichi forges stunning election win
Story by John Geddie and Tim Kelly, Reuters, February 8, 2026
"This election involved major policy shifts — particularly a major shift in economic and fiscal policy, as well as strengthening security policy," Takaichi said in a television interview as the results rolled in.
"These are policies that have drawn a great deal of opposition ... If we have received the public's support, then we truly must tackle these issues with all our strength."
Takaichi, 64, called the rare winter snap election to capitalise on her buoyant personal approval ratings since she was elevated to lead the long-ruling LDP late last year.
Voters have been drawn to her straight-talking, hardworking image, but her nationalistic leanings and emphasis on security have strained ties with Japan's powerful neighbour China, while her promises of tax cuts have rattled financial markets.
But Takaichi's election promise to suspend an 8% sales tax on food to help households cope with rising prices has rattled investors concerned about how the nation with the heaviest debt burden among advanced economies will fund the plan.
Takaichi said on Sunday she would speed up consideration of the sales tax cut while focusing on fiscal sustainability.
"Her plans for the cut in the consumption tax leave open big question marks about funding and how she's going to go about making the arithmetic add up," said Chris Scicluna, head of research at Daiwa Capital Markets Europe in London.
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The LDP, which has ruled for almost all of Japan's postwar history, had lost control of both houses in elections over the past 15 months under Takaichi's predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba.
Takaichi has managed to turn around the party's fortunes by striking a chord with younger voters.
Japan's 'Iron Lady' Takaichi forges stunning election win |
