Japan has named Sanae Takaichi as its first female prime minister, marking a historic moment for the country. Takaichi, 64, secured leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and was confirmed by Japan’s parliament on October 21, 2025. She credited former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as her political inspiration, pledging strong, values-based leadership.
Takaichi has built her platform on conservative principles, rejecting progressive cultural norms while championing national strength. She has openly opposed same-sex marriage, supported a constitutional rewrite to expand Japan’s military role, and stood against separate surnames for married couples. These positions align her with Japan’s nationalist right and reflect a broader commitment to traditional values.
Economically, Takaichi favors heavy government investment to stimulate growth, modeling her approach on the late Shinzo Abe’s policies. She has called for bold fiscal stimulus and state support for strategic industries, a strategy critics say will further inflate Japan’s national debt. Despite market concerns, she argues this approach will restore economic vitality.
On foreign policy, Takaichi supports strengthening ties with Taiwan and adopting a tougher stance against China. She also backs a larger, more assertive role for Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. Her hawkish posture is expected to increase tensions in the region, particularly with Beijing and Seoul.
Takaichi’s rise comes at a time of political uncertainty. Her party lost its upper-house majority earlier in 2025, forcing her to navigate a fragile coalition landscape. Public skepticism remains, especially among younger voters. However, her firm stance on national identity and defense has resonated with conservatives across Japan.
