Japan PM Sanae Takaichi wins Donald Trump’s full endorsement ahead of snap election
The Hindu
Japan's PM Sanae Takaichi secures Donald Trump's endorsement ahead of snap elections, boosting her coalition's chances for a super-majority.
Japanese premier Sanae Takaichi won U.S. President Donald Trump’s full endorsement on Friday (February 6, 2026), two days before snap elections that polls suggest may see her coalition romp home with a super-majority.
Japan’s first woman Prime Minister is hoping on Sunday (February 8, 2026) to capitalise on her strong popularity since taking the reins of Asia’s number-two economy in October.
Ms. Takaichi “has already proven to be a strong, powerful, and wise Leader, and one that truly loves her Country,” Mr. Trump wrote on Truth Social as he announced she would visit the United States on March 19.
The United States and Japan have been working to strike a “very substantial” deal on trade, as well as collaborating on national security, Trump said, offering his “Complete and Total Endorsement”.
“Prime Minister Takaichi is someone who deserves powerful recognition for the job she and her Coalition are doing,” he added.
While U.S. presidents have typically refrained from endorsing candidates in overseas elections, Mr. Trump has done so repeatedly, including throwing his backing behind Argentina’s Javier Milei and Hungary’s Viktor Orban.
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