Balance of Power

Japanese Premier Takaichi Stakes All on Unpredictable Election

The conservative leader’s gamble could consolidate her power or trigger a period of prolonged political uncertainty.
Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s prime minister, speaks during a news conference at the prime minister’s office in Tokyo, Japan, on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025.Photographer: Kiyoshi Ota/Bloomberg

Welcome to Balance of Power, bringing you the latest in global politics. If you haven’t yet, sign up here.

Just a week ago, Japan’s Sanae Takaichi seemed to be on a roll.