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Japan's ruling coalition may lose majority in critical election

Exit polls suggest significant losses for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's coalition, risking government stability.

July 20, 2025 at 01:18 PM

Japan election: PM Shigeru Ishiba vows to stay on despite bruising exit poll

The election outcome threatens the stability of Japan's government during critical trade negotiations.

Japan's ruling coalition faces major setback in crucial election

Japan's ruling coalition requires 50 seats to keep control of the 248-seat upper chamber. An exit poll predicts they will win between 32 and 51 seats, raising concerns about their majority. Voters appear frustrated with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s leadership amid economic challenges and inflation. Analysts believe a significant loss could force Ishiba to resign, leading to potential new leadership contenders. The political shake-up comes at a vital time as Japan engages in important trade talks with the United States.

Key Takeaways

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The coalition is poised to lose its majority for the first time since 1999.

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Voter frustration is rooted in economic issues and lack of confidence in leadership.

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Emerging right-wing parties are draining support from the ruling coalition.

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Ishiba may face pressure to resign if significant losses occur.

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A change in leadership could disrupt U.S.-Japan trade talks.

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Current political scandals have further eroded public trust.

"Support for more right wing parties has cut into the LDP's conservative support base."

This highlights a shifting political landscape in Japan, especially among conservative voters.

"Prime Minister Ishiba is considered not conservative enough by many supporters of Shinzo Abe."

This reflects the growing dissatisfaction within the ruling party's traditional base.

"A change of leadership within the ruling party would almost certainly unleash political drama."

The implication of instability during crucial trade negotiations raises concerns.

The election results reveal deep-seated dissatisfaction with the current leadership. Prime Minister Ishiba, criticized for lacking the nationalistic fervor of his predecessor Shinzo Abe, may struggle to unify his party in the face of emerging right-wing factions. With inflation hitting hard and the coalition on the verge of losing its majority, these results could lead to instability that hampers essential trade negotiations with the U.S. Furthermore, the possibility of a leadership change within the LDP adds another layer of uncertainty for Japanese politics.