Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s ruling coalition has secured a historic win in the lower house elections. Projections show her Liberal Democratic Party (LPD) winning up to 328 of the 465 seats, one of its strongest results ever.

The LDP crossed the simple majority mark of 233 seats within hours of polls closing. With its coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party (JIP), Takaichi now holds a two-thirds supermajority, allowing her to pass laws even without support from the upper house.

Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, says she draws inspiration from Britain’s “Iron Lady” Margaret Thatcher. She described the vote as public backing for bold economic and security changes.

Also Read: India reduces Russian crude imports amid new US trade framework

“This election involved major shifts in economic, fiscal, and security policies,” she said in a televised interview. “If the public has supported us, we must move forward with full strength.”

The 64-year-old leader called a rare winter snap election to capitalize on her strong approval ratings after taking charge of the LDP late last year. Despite heavy snowfall in several regions, voters turned out in large numbers.

In Niigata’s mountainous areas, people walked through snow to cast ballots. One voter said Takaichi gave a clear sense of direction and unity to the country.

Her campaign focused on tax relief and stronger defence policies, especially in response to China. She promised to suspend the 8% sales tax on food to ease pressure from rising prices, a move that worried financial markets.

Investors fear Japan, already carrying the highest debt among advanced economies, may struggle to fund the tax cut. Takaichi said she would move quickly but keep fiscal stability in mind.

US-China stance Takaichi’s victory:

International reaction has been sharp. US President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Takaichi and invited her to the White House next month. China, however, reacted negatively after she outlined possible responses to a Chinese attack on Taiwan.

Also Read: Crypto shock: Bithumb mistake sends $44 billion in Bitcoin to users

Beijing responded by discouraging travel to Japan. Taiwan’s president congratulated Takaichi, hoping her win would bring security and prosperity to the region.

With a strong mandate, Takaichi is expected to push ahead with defence expansion, even as she keeps diplomatic channels with China open.