Overview
- NHK projects the LDP at 274–328 seats in the 465-member lower house, with the LDP–Japan Innovation Party bloc at 302–366, potentially clearing the two‑thirds threshold.
- The outcome validates Takaichi’s snap‑election gamble after just three months in office and restores firm LDP control over the lower house.
- Opposition forces faltered, with the Centrist Reform Alliance projected to shed dozens of seats after failing to unify challengers across districts.
- Campaign pledges such as suspending the food consumption tax and pursuing large stimulus have unnerved investors given Japan’s heavy debt load and recent market volatility.
- Turnout was tested by heavy snowfall, yet strong youth enthusiasm for Takaichi and a high‑profile endorsement from President Donald Trump, who plans to host her on March 19, buoyed her position.