Sanae Takaichi Becomes Japan’s First Female Prime Minister After Last-Minute Coalition Deal

Japan made history on Tuesday as Sanae Takaichi became the nation’s first female prime minister, following a dramatic, last-minute coalition deal that secured her the top job.

Known for her conservative views and firm stance on China, Takaichi—Japan’s fifth leader in five years—will head a minority government facing a packed agenda, including preparations for an upcoming visit by U.S. President Donald Trump next week.

Takaichi, 64, a self-professed admirer of Margaret Thatcher, was elected by Japan’s lower house of parliament, narrowly winning in the first round of voting. Looking composed, she stood and bowed several times before lawmakers as the upper house confirmed her appointment in a runoff vote. She will formally assume office after meeting the Emperor later today.

Takaichi rose to power on October 4, when she was elected leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has dominated Japanese politics for decades but is struggling with declining support. Her ascent followed a turbulent week after the Komeito Party, the LDP’s long-time coalition partner, withdrew from the alliance over differences on her conservative policies and a party funding scandal.

To secure a governing majority, Takaichi struck an agreement late Monday with the Japan Innovation Party (JIP)—a reformist, right-leaning group that advocates cutting the consumption tax on food to zero, banning corporate donations, and reducing the number of lawmakers.

On Monday, Takaichi pledged to “make Japan’s economy stronger and reshape Japan as a country that can be responsible for future generations.”

“She’s a strong-minded person, regardless of being a woman,” said Toru Takahashi, 76, a pensioner from her hometown of Nara. “She’s not like Trump, but she’s clear about what’s right and wrong.”

Promises More Women in Cabinet

Takaichi has promised to form a cabinet with more women, aiming for what she called “Nordic levels” of female representation, compared to just two women in the outgoing administration. Local media suggest that Satsuki Katayama may become finance minister, while Kimi Onoda, who has American heritage, could take on economic security.

Japan currently ranks 118th out of 148 countries in the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Gender Gap Report, with only about 15% of lower house lawmakers being women.

While Takaichi has spoken openly about women’s health and her personal experience with menopause, she opposes reforms to allow separate surnames for married couples and supports maintaining male-only imperial succession.

“I hope she makes Japan more livable for women,” said Keiko Yoshida, 39, a company employee in Nara. “Policies that help with childcare and support women returning to work are needed.”

Policy Challenges and U.S. Relations

Takaichi’s government faces major tests, including reversing population decline, reviving the sluggish economy, and navigating complex foreign policy pressures.

The U.S.–Japan trade deal, reportedly worth $500 billion in investments, remains vague, and Trump is expected to urge Japan to halt Russian energy imports and increase defense spending.

“I’d like her to be a prime minister who can clearly say ‘no’ when necessary,” said Satoshi Sakamoto, 73, another Nara resident.

Domestically, Takaichi’s minority coalition will need opposition support to pass legislation. She is expected to follow her mentor Shinzo Abe’s economic strategy of monetary easing and expansive fiscal policy, while maintaining a firm stance on national security.

Previously known for her sharp rhetoric toward China—once saying Japan was “looked down on by Beijing”—Takaichi has recently softened her tone and avoided visiting the controversial Yasukuni Shrine last week, a site honoring Japan’s war dead.

As she assumes office, Takaichi also faces the task of rebuilding the LDP’s popularity after several election setbacks and corruption scandals.

“Prices have gone up, and it’s tough,” said Satoe Tominaga, 77, a pensioner in Nara. “Honestly, I mostly shop at 100-yen stores now.”

With her historic rise, Takaichi steps into a demanding role—tasked with proving that Japan’s first female leader can deliver stability, growth, and renewed trust in government.

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