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Japan's Ruling Coalition Loses Majority Amid Economic Struggles

7/22/2025

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Summary

Ishiba Faces Setback

Japan's ruling coalition, under Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, faced a historic blow in the July 20 upper house election, losing its majority as seats plummeted from 141 to 122. Despite mounting pressure and economic unrest, Ishiba remains resolute, vowing to continue leading amid growing opposition.

Summary

Sanseito Surges Forward

In Japan's upper house elections on July 20, the right-leaning Sanseito and the opposition Democratic Party for the People surged, signaling widespread voter discontent with traditional parties. Sanseito's provocative "Japanese First" slogan sparked fears of xenophobia, while the ruling coalition's loss of majority power has amplified demands for urgent political reform amidst growing economic challenges.

History

Historical Context

The 1993 Japanese general election marked a pivotal moment as the Liberal Democratic Party lost its majority for the first time since 1955, leading to a coalition government. This shift reflected public demand for change. In the recent July 20, 2025 elections, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's coalition similarly lost seats, indicating ongoing voter discontent and a push for political reform in Japan.

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Ishiba Faces Setback

Japan's ruling coalition, under Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, faced a historic blow in the July 20 upper house election, losing its majority as seats plummeted from 141 to 122. Despite mounting pressure and economic unrest, Ishiba remains resolute, vowing to continue leading amid growing opposition.

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