Polling began on Sunday, February 8, 2026, in Japan's parliamentary elections, as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi seeks a strong mandate, according to the Associated Press. The snap polls were called by Takaichi in an effort to reverse declining support for her ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has governed Japan for most of the past seven decades.
The Prime Minister is aiming to advance a right-leaning policy platform focused on economic revival and stronger military capabilities amid rising tensions with China, AP reported. She has also worked to maintain close ties with the United States, led by President Donald Trump.
What do opinion polls suggest?
Opinion polls ahead of the vote pointed to a decisive victory for the LDP in the powerful lower house of parliament, according to Associated Press surveys. The opposition remains fragmented despite attempts to form a new centrist alliance, while smaller far-right parties have gained some ground but are not seen as serious challengers.
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Takaichi is banking on the LDP, along with its new ally, the Japan Innovation Party, to secure a majority in the 465-member lower house. Some major Japanese newspapers have suggested that the LDP could even win a simple majority on its own, while the coalition could secure up to 300 seats. However, the Prime Minister has made her position clear if the results fall short. "I will step down," she said, if the LDP fails to secure a majority.
What could Takaichi's win mean for Japan?
A strong win for Takaichi's coalition could lead to a noticeable shift to the right in areas such as security, immigration, and foreign policy.
Takaichi has pledged to revise Japan's security and defence policies by December. Her proposals include strengthening offensive military capabilities, easing restrictions on weapons exports, and moving further away from Japan's post-war pacifist stance.
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Defence spending is another priority. Takaichi has argued for higher military budgets, partly in response to pressure from President Trump for Japan to spend more on its own defence.
During the campaign, however, she largely avoided divisive issues in public speeches. Instead, she focused on economic growth, immigration controls, and policies affecting foreign nationals, including stricter rules for foreign property ownership and caps on foreign residents.
