Sanae Takaichi
Japan's February 8 lower house election unpredictable for five reasons
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Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has called a snap lower house election for February 8, marking one of the most unpredictable contests in years. Factors include a gap between her high approval ratings and her party's lower support, low youth turnout, the coalition split, a far-right challenge, and the winter timing. Surveys suggest the Liberal Democratic Party could gain seats in proportional representation.
On January 23, 2026, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved Japan's House of Representatives, paving the way for a snap election on February 8. The move, the shortest campaign period in postwar history at 16 days, seeks public endorsement for her ruling coalition. Opposition parties have united to challenge on issues like economic policies and defense enhancements.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced she will dissolve the House of Representatives on Friday and hold a general election on February 8. She is seeking a public mandate on her leadership amid criticism that the move capitalizes on her cabinet's high approval ratings. Opposition parties have formed a new alliance to challenge the ruling bloc.