📉 A Historic Decline in Power

For the first time in its 70-year history, Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has lost its majority in both houses of the Diet. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s coalition suffered back-to-back defeats in the 2024 Lower House and 2025 Upper House elections, marking a dramatic shift in Japan’s political landscape.

🧓 Changing Voter Demographics

  • Elderly voter turnout dropped significantly, especially in the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election.
  • Younger voters are gravitating toward populist and anti-establishment parties, such as Sanseito and DPFP.
  • Independent voters are increasingly rejecting the LDP, with exit polls showing a sharp decline in support.

📱 The Role of Social Media

  • Platforms like X and YouTube have amplified anti-LDP sentiment, shifting public discourse.
  • Right-wing populist content and misinformation have eroded trust in mainstream parties.
  • Some LDP figures blame foreign interference, though evidence remains limited.

🏛️ Weakening Support Base

  • Traditional support from rural voters and business groups is thinning.
  • Scandals involving political funds and religious ties have damaged credibility.
  • Conservative voters are flocking to opposition parties with stronger nationalist messaging.

💸 Economic Discontent

  • Inflation and the “Reiwa rice crisis” have hit households hard.
  • LDP’s ¥20,000 handout was seen as insufficient and out of touch.
  • Opposition parties gained traction with tax-cut proposals and economic reforms.

🧭 What’s Next?

The LDP faces a crossroads. With voter demographics shifting and digital platforms reshaping opinion, the party must evolve to avoid further decline. Whether it can reconnect with the public and adapt to Japan’s changing political climate remains to be seen.