Sanae Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) secured a historic two-thirds majority in Japan’s lower house of parliament on Sunday, February 8, 2026, following a snap election called by the Prime Minister just over four months after assuming office.
The LDP won more than 310 of the 465 seats, marking the first time since World War II that a single party has achieved such a dominant position in the Japanese legislature. The broader ruling coalition, including allied parties, exceeded 340 seats, according to results reported by CNN and the New York Times. Takaichi, who became Japan’s first female leader, initiated the snap election as a bid to solidify her authority and gain a stronger mandate for her policy agenda.
The victory is a significant reversal of fortune for the LDP, which had been facing declining voter support prior to Takaichi’s leadership. She has enjoyed high approval ratings since taking office, bolstered by a strong work ethic and a successful social media presence. A recent, widely circulated video of Takaichi participating in an impromptu drum session with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung contributed to a surge in public enthusiasm, reminiscent of the popularity enjoyed by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
The supermajority now held by Takaichi’s party allows it to override votes in the upper house of parliament and, crucially, to propose amendments to the constitution – a long-held goal of the LDP. The election was considered a gamble, coming after a period of instability for the party linked to a scandal involving the misuse of political funds. However, Takaichi’s strategy proved successful, translating her personal popularity into widespread support for the LDP.
Financial markets reacted positively to the election results, with Japanese stocks surging to a record high on Monday, February 9, 2026, as reported by the BBC. Other Asian markets also saw upward movement. In a statement to public broadcaster NHK, Takaichi thanked voters “who braved the cold and walked through the snowy roads to cast their votes.”
U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly congratulated Takaichi on her victory, offering a glowing endorsement of her leadership. No immediate statements have been released by other international leaders regarding the outcome of the election or its potential implications for regional diplomacy.
