Japan Election Live: PM Takaichi Faces Key Test as Turnout Hits 7.17% Amid Snow

Voting began on Sunday in Japan’s snap Lower House election, widely viewed as a referendum on Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s leadership, as voters choose between her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)–led government and a united opposition bloc.

The election is expected to deliver a clear victory for Takaichi, though record snowfall in parts of the country could suppress turnout. Initial voter participation stood at 7.17% as of 11 am local time, down 3.26 percentage points from the same time during the 2024 election, Kyodo News reported.

Opinion polls suggest the conservative coalition led by Takaichi—Japan’s first female prime minister—could secure around 300 of the 465 seats in the Lower House, a sharp rise from the 233 seats it is defending, according to Reuters.

If the LDP and its ally, the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), cross the 310-seat threshold, the coalition would gain the power to override the Upper House, where it currently lacks a majority. Takaichi has said she would step down if the coalition fails to retain its majority.

Japan’s Snap Election | Top 10 Points

1. Takaichi, 64, became prime minister in October after being elected LDP leader and called the rare winter election to seek a fresh mandate amid strong approval ratings.

2. Known for her blunt style and reputation as a tireless worker, she has found notable support among younger voters.

3. Since taking office, she has fast-tracked increases in military spending to counter China and pushed for a sales-tax cut, unsettling financial markets.

4. Her popularity among younger voters has spilled into pop culture, with a social media trend dubbed “sanakatsu,” centred on items she uses—such as her handbag and pink pen—Reuters reported.

5. Adding momentum late in the campaign, Takaichi received an endorsement from US President Donald Trump on Thursday, a move that could energise conservative voters but alienate moderates.

6. If the LDP alone wins at least 233 seats, it would be seen as a decisive personal victory, strengthening Takaichi’s grip on the Lower House.

7. Failure by the LDP–Ishin alliance to secure a majority could force Takaichi to resign, potentially returning Japan to political instability after four prime ministers in about three years, The Japan Times reported.

8. All 465 Lower House seats are contested—289 from single-member districts and 176 through proportional representation.

9. Polling stations close at 8 pm local time, with media projections expected shortly thereafter, according to The Japan Times.

10. Opinion polls consistently project the Takaichi-led conservative bloc to win roughly 300 seats in the Lower House.