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50m ago

Exit Polls Project Big LDP Win With Likely Supermajority in Japan’s Snap Election

Exit polls point to a ruling‑bloc supermajority enabling easier passage of her tax and security agenda.

Sanae Takaichi, Japan's Prime Minister and leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), waves to supporters during an election campaign event for the February 8 snap election, in Kawasaki, Japan, January 31, 2026, in this photo taken by Kyodo. Mandatory credit Kyodo/via REUTERS
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Japan's Prime Minister and leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Sanae Takaichi, waves her hand during an election campaign event ahead of the February 8 snap election, in Tokyo, Japan, February 7, 2026. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon

Overview

  • NHK projects the Liberal Democratic Party to win 274–328 of the 465 lower‑house seats, with the LDP–Ishin bloc potentially reaching a supermajority that would clear the 310‑seat threshold to override the upper chamber.
  • Takaichi campaigned on suspending the 8% sales tax on food for two years and boosting defence outlays, and analysts warned the yen and Japanese government bond yields could face pressure even as equities may find support.
  • Record snowfall snarled transport and complicated voting in several regions, with the Japan Meteorological Agency warning of severe disruption and some polling sites closing early, leaving turnout effects uncertain.
  • The prime minister sought a renewed mandate in a rare midwinter snap vote and had pledged to resign if the coalition lost its majority, but exit polling points to a clear parliamentary advantage.
  • Surveys highlighted unusually strong youth backing for Takaichi, and the election featured 1,284 candidates contesting 465 seats in the first February lower‑house vote since 1990.