Japan’s parliament elected staunch conservative Sanae Takaichi as the country’s first female prime minister, elevating the LDP leader after forming a coalition with Nippon Ishin. The 64-year-old Abe protégé inherits soaring prices, shaken public trust after a slush fund scandal, and a deadlocked political landscape—days before a scheduled visit by U.S. President Donald Trump. Known for nationalist positions, from revising the pacifist constitution to opposing same‑sex marriage, she faces sensitive regional ties and domestic unease over big‑spending, tax‑cut plans as rice prices almost doubled from last year. After four leaders in five years, she must deliver quickly.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.