Takaichi Campaigns Hard Ahead of Japan Snap Poll

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is using her growing popularity to help her party win the snap election on Sunday (February 8, 2026).

Takaichi, who became Japan’s first female Prime Minister in October, has quickly gained strong public support. Her energetic working style and simple message of “work, work, work” have connected especially well with younger voters.

She is promoting a right-wing political agenda focused on strengthening Japan’s economy and military power. Her government wants to improve business growth, create jobs, and make Japan more self-reliant.

At the same time, she has stressed the need for stronger defence and security, as tensions with China continue to rise. She has also expressed concerns about depending too much on the United States, calling Washington’s policies unpredictable.

By focusing on both economic growth and national security, Takaichi hopes to gain enough public support to secure a clear victory for her party in the election.

The snap poll is seen as an important test of her leadership and the direction she wants Japan to take.