Japan has entered a historic new era as hardline conservative Sanae Takaichi was elected Prime Minister on Tuesday, October 21, becoming the first woman in modern times to lead the country.
Takaichi, 64, secured 237 votes against 149 in the lower house of parliament, defeating opposition leader Yoshihiko Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party.
She later clinched victory in the upper house by 125 to 46 votes, despite missing a majority in the initial round.
Her election marks a turning point in Japan’s male-dominated political landscape, where women have long been underrepresented.
However, her victory comes amid political turbulence, a fractured coalition, and mounting public frustration over economic struggles and corruption scandals.
Takaichi, a protégé of late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, has been an outspoken advocate for a stronger military, tougher immigration laws, and a revision of Japan’s pacifist constitution.
She has previously held key ministerial positions, including economic security, internal affairs, and gender equality.
Earlier this month, she won the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership after two failed attempts in 2021 and 2024, but her path to the premiership appeared uncertain when the centrist Komeito Partypulled out of the coalition.
To secure parliamentary support, the LDP struck a last-minute alliance with the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), shifting the government further to the right.
“She emerges from this a diminished leader from the get-go,” said Jeff Kingston, professor of Asian studies and history at Temple University, Japan campus.
Despite the political challenges, Takaichi’s appointment has drawn both celebration and skepticism across the country.
Many see her rise as symbolic progress for women in Japan, though questions remain about her ability to unite a divided government and address Japan’s slowing economy.
Her immediate challenge will be preparing for an upcoming state visit by U.S. President Donald Trump, who is set to arrive in Japan next week as part of his Asia tour.
“She doesn’t have a whole lot of time to get ready for a slew of diplomatic activity,” Kingston added. “But I think job one is the Japanese economy.”
Furthermore, Takaichi faces the daunting task of rebuilding public trust in the LDP after the party’s major election losses earlier this year.
Her administration is expected to prioritize economic recovery, defense expansion, and strengthening Japan’s global partnerships, especially amid rising regional tensions.
In her first statement as Prime Minister, Takaichi pledged to “restore confidence, drive reform, and ensure Japan’s safety in uncertain times.”
