Japan's Takaichi administration faces declining approval ratings

Approval ratings for the Takaichi administration and the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) have seen a significant decline. A July poll reported by Mainichi Shimbun showed LDP support dropping 4 percentage points to 23%, marking the lowest level since the cabinet's formation in October last year.

Analysts attribute this decline to controversial economic and defense policies. Regarding the economy, Takaichi has proposed a plan to reduce the consumption tax on food and beverages from 8% to 1% between April 2027 and 2029. Critics argue this could create massive fiscal deficits and that the benefits might be offset by rising inflation. Additionally, her administration's moves toward military expansion—including increasing defense budgets and lifting restrictions on lethal weapon exports—have sparked domestic protests and public unease regarding the post-war pacifist framework.

Discrepancies in polling data, such as varying approval figures between 41% and 61.6%, highlight how methodology affects results. Factors such as whether political party names are read aloud to respondents or how questions are phrased can significantly influence public opinion metrics.