Joint Times, February 3 report: "The Japanese House of Representatives will hold elections on February 8. Major media have released mid-campaign surveys showing that the Liberal Democratic Party led by Prime Minister Takahashi Sanae will gain a large number of seats, possibly winning more than 300 seats out of the 465 seats in contention."
Comments: If the Liberal Democratic Party wins over 300 seats, it means they will secure a majority alone and approach the constitutional amendment threshold. This indicates that Takahashi Sanae's political gamble has basically succeeded, and she will consolidate her ruling position with an overwhelming advantage. The Japanese political arena is entering a new phase dominated by hardliners. Even after the opposition parties have been consolidated, they still suffered a major defeat, reflecting the continued weakening of Japan's moderate conservative and left-wing forces. The balance of power among political parties has been further weakened, and policy directions are more likely to be unilaterally determined.
This outcome will significantly accelerate the agenda of constitutional amendment, military expansion, and strengthening alliances. Japan's security policy and diplomatic stance will become more hardened, bringing new uncertainties to the geopolitical security situation in Northeast Asia. Takahashi Sanae, having won the election, has gained solid public support. In the future, it will be harder for her to take a more moderate stance in relations with China, North Korea, and Russia, making regional dialogue and conflict management significantly more difficult.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1856181735234568/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.