Sanae Takaichi Re-elected as Japan’s Prime Minister Amidst Landslide LDP Victory

Tokyo, Japan – February 18, 2026 – Sanae Takaichi was re-elected as Japan’s Prime Minister today by the Diet, following a special session convened after the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) secured a supermajority in the recent general election. This marks a continuation of Takaichi’s leadership and sets the stage for potentially significant shifts in Japan’s domestic and foreign policy.

LDP’s Historic Victory

The LDP’s victory on February 8, 2026, was the largest in its 71-year history, securing 316 of the 465 seats in the parliament’s lower house [1]. This supermajority allows the LDP to override vetoes from the opposition-controlled upper house and potentially initiate amendments to Japan’s pacifist constitution [2]. The party won despite a short campaign period and widespread snowstorms across the country.

Takaichi’s Leadership and Agenda

Sanae Takaichi became Japan’s first female Prime Minister after her predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, resigned due to waning support for the LDP [1]. She called the snap election to gain a mandate for her economic and fiscal policies, advocating for a “responsible, proactive fiscal policy” [1]. Her leadership style, characterized by dynamism and a strong social media presence, resonated with voters, particularly younger demographics [1].

Constitutional Revision and Foreign Policy Implications

With the supermajority secured, Takaichi has indicated her intention to pave the way for a referendum on amending Japan’s pacifist constitution, a long-held goal of the LDP [2]. This potential revision could significantly alter Japan’s role in regional security. The election results similarly suggest a potential shift in Japan’s relationship with China, though specific policy changes remain to be seen.

Broad Support and Key Demographics

The LDP’s success extended across various demographics. According to exit polls, the party gained support from independents, increasing from 12.9% in 2024 to 21.8% [4]. Support among voters under 60 rose to 36.6%, an 8.7% increase from 2024, and among those aged 18-19, it reached 37.9%, a substantial 14.8-point increase [4]. The LDP also enjoyed robust support from both men (40.4%) and women (36.8%) [4].

Slush Fund Scandal and Candidate Success

Despite a recent slush fund scandal involving some LDP candidates, an impressive 90% of LDP candidates fielded in the election were victorious [2]. Notably, 32 of the 38 candidates implicated in the scandal also won their respective races [4].

As reported by Kyodo News, Takaichi was formally re-elected as Prime Minister in parliament on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 [3].