Japan's Ruling Coalition Loses Upper House Majority in Election

Japan's ruling coalition, led by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior partner Komeito, is projected to lose its majority in the upper house following recent elections, according to multiple exit polls and media projections. The coalition is expected to secure around 40 seats combined, falling far short of the 66 seats they previously held that were up for re-election, and likely ending with fewer seats than the 141 they controlled overall. This outcome marks a significant setback for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, whose minority government already lost control of the lower house in the previous election, increasing pressure on his leadership and making his administration vulnerable to no-confidence votes. Opposition parties, including Sanseito, the Democratic Party for the People, and the Constitutional Democratic Party, made strong gains, capitalizing on voter concerns about inflation, particularly the rising cost of staple foods, and tax policies. The ruling coalition's stance on fiscal restraint and opposition to consumption tax cuts contrasted with opposition demands for tax relief and increased welfare spending, influencing voter sentiment. This loss could destabilize Japan's political landscape amid economic challenges and an approaching critical tariff deadline with the United States.