Overview
- The party remains the largest force in both chambers of the Diet and is urged to act as the central player in national governance.
- A Yomiuri poll put the Takaichi Cabinet’s approval at 71%, while support for the LDP stood at 32%, below levels seen under Shinzo Abe.
- In Tokyo’s Katsushika Ward election on Nov. 9, seven of 17 LDP candidates lost, reducing the party’s seats below its preelection strength of 12.
- An ongoing scandal over factions’ failure to report fundraising-ticket income has damaged public trust and weakened party structures.
- Most factions have dissolved except Taro Aso’s, eroding training for younger lawmakers as the party is pressed to rebuild grassroots engagement, consider broader coalitions, and address fiscal, demographic, economic, and security strains.