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Japan's First Female PM Calls Snap Election Amid Inflation

2/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi calls a snap election for February 8, a contest featuring over 1,200 candidates that could reshape security and immigration policies.
She is Japan's first female prime minister and enjoys high approval among younger voters.
Her campaign focuses on inflation and proposes a two-year suspension of the 8% consumption tax on food.
The Liberal Democratic Party is expected to gain a significant majority.

History

Historical Context

Japan granted women the right to vote in December 1945, following World War II and the drafting of a new constitution that emphasized gender equality. Despite this progress, women remain underrepresented in politics, with only 15.7% of seats held by women in the 2024 general election. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's leadership reflects ongoing challenges in achieving true gender equality in Japan's political landscape.

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Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi calls a snap election for February 8, a contest featuring over 1,200 candidates that could reshape security and immigration policies.
She is Japan's first female prime minister and enjoys high approval among younger voters.
Her campaign focuses on inflation and proposes a two-year suspension of the 8% consumption tax on food.
The Liberal Democratic Party is expected to gain a significant majority.

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