The 64-year-old conservative hawk has pledged to strengthen defense and the US alliance, drawing immediate praise from President Trump.
TOKYO – Japan's parliament officially elected Sanae Takachi as the country's first-ever female Prime Minister on Wednesday, a landmark moment in the nation's political history.
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| Sanae Takaichi becomes Japan's first female Prime Minister |
According to a report from The Wall Street Journal on October 22, 2025, Ms. Takachi secured the premiership following a closely contested vote in the National Diet. Her victory marks a historic turning point for Japan, shattering the ultimate glass ceiling in a political landscape that has been overwhelmingly male-dominated for centuries.
Ms. Takachi, 64, is a veteran politician and a leading figure in the conservative wing of her party. She is known for her staunchly pro-US stance and is widely regarded as a "hawk" on foreign policy, particularly in her approach to China.
Her election signals a potentially more assertive posture for Tokyo as it navigates severe regional and domestic challenges, including rising geopolitical tensions and a persistent population decline.
During her campaign, Ms. Takachi outlined a robust agenda focused on national security and economic revitalization. She has pledged to:
Strengthen National Defense: Advocate for increased defense spending and enhancing Japan's military capabilities.
Expand US Cooperation: Deepen the strategic alliance with the United States, which she views as the cornerstone of Japan's security.
Promote National Innovation: Push for greater investment in domestic technology to ensure economic competitiveness.
Analysts cited by The Wall Street Journal described Ms. Takachi's victory as a powerful "symbol for the transformation of modern Japan." However, they also noted the immense task she faces. As Prime Minister, she must now navigate a difficult balancing act between bolstering the economy, delivering on her security commitments, and addressing long-term social reforms.
The historic election drew a swift and warm response from Japan's closest ally. In Washington, US President Donald Trump issued a statement congratulating the new Prime Minister, calling her "a loyal friend and ally of the United States."
President Trump further affirmed that the critical Tokyo-Washington relationship is "at its strongest stage in the last half-century," signaling a seamless and robust continuation of the alliance under Japan's new leadership.