Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi Faces Declining Approval Ratings Ahead of Early Elections
With less than two weeks to go before early elections in Japan, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s approval rating is showing signs of slowing down. According to recent opinion polls, her approval rating has declined from 75% in December, as reported by the Nikkei, to 67% currently. The Kyodo agency records a rating of 63%, while the Mainichi’s indications drop to 57%. This decline in approval ratings is a significant concern for the first woman to become prime minister in Japan, who took office just last October.
Factors Contributing to the Decline in Approval Ratings
The decision to dissolve the Lower House before the approval of the record budget maneuver, worth $793 billion, has been met with disapproval from 49% of those interviewed. Prime Minister Takaichi’s intent to convert her personal popularity into greater support for the executive and pursue expansionary fiscal policies has been questioned by 56% of voters, who doubt that the anti-inflation package can stem the cost of living. This is considered an absolute priority for 41% of those interviewed. The gap between the prime minister’s “charismatic leadership” and the general consensus of the electorate towards the conservatives is a critical issue.
Impact on the Liberal Democratic Party and Future Parliamentary Structure
The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is struggling to gain support, with approval ratings around 30%, without the historic support of the Komeito, after 26 years of alliance. The break with the centrist force, now aligned with the opposition, risks undermining the conservatives’ advantage in dozens of urban constituencies. Uncertainty is also evident regarding the future parliamentary structure, with only 46% hoping for a government majority, while 32% are aiming for a balance between the different sides. Economists observe that this economic phase risks further weakening the prime minister’s electoral promises.
Economic Concerns and Institutional Credibility
The vote appears to be a test of fiscal sustainability and the institutional credibility of the executive, in a context in which government bond yields remain under pressure due to fears linked to an increase in public debt. While 58% of the electorate say they are in favor of structural VAT cuts, the prime minister’s ability to deliver on her promises is being questioned. The latest survey by the public broadcaster NHK sets approval at 59%, with a disapproval rate growing at 26%, painting an increasingly complex picture for Prime Minister Takaichi.
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