Overview
- Ruling bloc leaders say the vote is expected on Feb. 8, with Kyodo also reporting Feb. 15 as a possible alternative.
- Takaichi’s coalition holds 233 of 465 seats in the Lower House and remains a minority in the Upper House, constraining legislation.
- Opposition parties warn an accelerated campaign could delay deliberations on the initial fiscal 2026 budget.
- Market reaction to the prospect of early elections included declines in the yen and Japanese government bonds, according to recent reporting.
- NHK and other polls place Takaichi’s approval around 62%–70%, as her security stance has drawn friction with Beijing over Taiwan.