Sanae Takaichi's Coalition Wins Majority in Japan's Winter Election
Sanae Takaichi, Japan's prime minister and leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), secured a decisive victory in the country's unusual winter election, with her coalition gaining a majority of seats in the House of Representatives.
Reuters reported on February 8 that the LDP alone surpassed the 233 seats required for a majority less than two hours after polls closed. Takaichi's alliance with the Japan Innovation Party, known as Ishin, achieved a two-thirds majority, facilitating the passage of the government's legislative agenda.
The election faced challenges from unprecedented snowfall in parts of Japan, which disrupted voter travel and forced some polling stations to close early.
Takaichi campaigned on economic reforms, tax reductions, and stronger security policies, garnering broad support particularly from young voters.
This marks only the third February election in Japan since World War II.
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