Japan PM Ishiba Resists Resignation After LDP Loses Upper House Majority Amid Far-Right Surge

In Japan's recent upper house elections, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's ruling coalition of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Komeito lost their parliamentary majority for the first time since 1955, reflecting public dissatisfaction over rising prices and trade tensions with the United States under President Trump. Despite the defeat and internal party pressures, Ishiba has vowed to remain in office to oversee critical tariff negotiations with the US and manage the ongoing economic challenges. The election saw significant gains for the far-right Sanseito party, which surged from one to 14 seats by campaigning on anti-immigration, anti-globalist, and nationalist platforms, echoing conspiracy theories and skepticism that gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic. The LDP now faces a weakened position in both houses, requiring support from other parties to pass legislation, while Ishiba's leadership remains uncertain amid calls for change. Observers view the election outcome as a referendum on Ishiba's governance, with the opposition parties across the spectrum making substantial advances. The political landscape in Japan is currently unpredictable, with the ruling coalition's ability to maintain power and finalize trade agreements hanging in the balance.