‘Iron Lady’ Sanae Takaichi wins big; PM Modi congratulates

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s coalition swept Sunday’s early elections and won a supermajority that would unleash an agenda of tax cuts and increased defense.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) saw one of its strongest results ever, breaching the 233-seat majority mark within two hours of polls closing. Working with the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), they hold two-thirds of the House of Representatives seats, allowing it to bypass the uncooperative upper house.

Early general elections were held on February 8, 2026 for all 465 seats in the House of Representatives in Japan.

Earlier exit polls show Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will win 274-328 seats, far exceeding the 233 seats needed for a majority in the 465-member Lower House. With its coalition partner Ishin no Kai, the bloc aims to achieve a two-thirds supermajority by reaching 302-366 seats in total.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Sanae Takaichi on her landmark victory. PM Modi said in an

Congratulations to Sanae Takaichi on her historic victory in the House of Representatives elections!

Our exclusive Strategic and Global Partnership plays a vital role in developing… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 8, 2026

Prime Minister Modi praised the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between India and Japan and noted its key role in promoting global peace, stability and prosperity.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, 64, took office as LDP leader in October 2025 and has called this rare winter election to lock in a new mandate. He is gaining popularity thanks to his outspoken style and tireless work ethic, which resonate strongly with young voters.

While in office, he increased military spending to counter China and pushed for sales tax cuts, even as markets worried about the move.

The LDP’s solitary win with more than 233 seats marks its personal victory and solidifies control of the Lower House. U.S. President Donald Trump’s endorsement on Thursday may inflame conservatives but put moderates at risk. Polls predict the LDP-Ishin bloc will capture about 300 of the 465 seats, including 289 single-member and 176 proportional. The coalition’s failure to secure a majority could force it to leave, rekindling Japan’s Prime Minister change chaos. With rapid predictions made, the polls closed at 20:00 local time.