Japan's Ruling Coalition Loses Majority in Historic Political Shift

In a historic political shift, Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner, Komeito, have lost their majority in the House of Councillors for the first time since the LDP's founding in 1955. The July 20, 2025, election resulted in the coalition securing only 47 seats—39 for the LDP and 8 for Komeito—falling short of the 50 needed to maintain control in the 248-seat upper house. nippon.com

This outcome leaves Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's government as a minority in both chambers of the National Diet, following a previous loss in the lower house in 2024. Despite mounting pressure, Ishiba has vowed to remain in office, stating, "I will fulfill my responsibility as head of the No. 1 party and work for the country." pbs.org

The election also marked significant gains for opposition parties. The Democratic Party for the People (DPP) increased its representation from 4 to 17 seats, while the right-wing Sanseito party surged from 1 to 14 seats. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) maintained its 22 seats. nippon.com

Sanseito's rise reflects a broader trend of rightward shifts in Japanese politics. Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sanseito capitalized on anti-immigration sentiment and economic anxiety, campaigning under a "Japanese First" platform. The party's leader, Sohei Kamiya, has drawn comparisons to former U.S. President Donald Trump, adopting a similar populist style. elpais.com

The party's success has been fueled by a strong social media presence, particularly on YouTube, attracting younger voters disillusioned with traditional political structures. Sanseito's policies include strict immigration controls, opposition to same-sex marriage, and a call for a new constitution emphasizing national sovereignty. reuters.com

The political instability resulting from the election threatens to delay critical policy decisions, including the drafting of the national budget and the timing of the Bank of Japan's next interest rate hike. Analysts warn that prolonged uncertainty could exacerbate Japan's economic challenges, especially amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States. reuters.com

Public dissatisfaction with the coalition's response to soaring living costs and economic insecurity played a significant role in the election outcome. Exit polls indicate that inflation and economic concerns dominated voter priorities, with "measures against rising prices" cited as the most important issue. english.news.cn

This election marks the first time since 1955 that the ruling bloc has lost majority control in both houses of parliament, creating an unprecedented political landscape. The ruling coalition's minority status in both chambers complicates governance and policy implementation, potentially leading to prolonged political instability. pbs.org

As Japan navigates this new political terrain, the government faces the challenge of addressing public concerns over economic stability and national identity while managing the rise of populist movements that threaten to reshape the country's political landscape.