How Japan’s first female PM won over disillusioned young votersA clearer message on fiscal spending and national security and sharp social media skills have propelled Takaichi’s riseBy Erica Yokoyama and Akemi Terukina / BloombergThree months into her tenure as Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi is connecting with younger voters in a way her predecessors failed. She plays KPop Demon Hunters’ Golden on the drums with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and takes selfies with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. “I’m fully behind her.”Takaichi’s smarter use of social media may be contributing to her popularity. Her pledge to “work, work, work, work and work” during her post-victory speech and a recent 3am meeting she called to study up on policies have been criticized, but have also projected an image of meritocracy over schmoozing with the old guard. “Some young voters see Takaichi as Abe’s successor and back her for that reason,” Hata said.

Source: Taipei Times February 06, 2026 16:41 UTC