Trump Backs Japan's Takaichi Ahead of Critical snap Election

Sat Feb 07 2026 00:56:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Former President Donald Trump has endorsed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as she approaches a pivotal snap election, calling her a strong leader committed to her nation.

Donald Trump has officially endorsed Sanae Takaichi, the Prime Minister of Japan, ahead of the upcoming snap election on Sunday. In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Takaichi as a wise and powerful leader, emphasizing her commitment to Japan. While such endorsements from U.S. presidents in foreign elections are rare, Trump's backing underscores the importance of Takaichi's leadership amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions with China. Takaichi, who recently assumed office, will face multiple challenges post-election, particularly concerning Japan's economic stability and its relationship with the U.S. as well as China.

Trump Backs Japan's Takaichi Ahead of Critical Snap Election

Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as she approaches a pivotal snap election set for this Sunday.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Takaichi as a strong, powerful, and wise leader... one that truly loves her country. He assured his followers that she will not let the people of Japan down! The endorsement signifies the U.S. administration's support for Takaichi during this crucial electoral period.

It is uncommon for U.S. presidents to publicly support candidates in foreign elections; however, Trump previously backed leaders such as Argentina's Javier Milei and Hungary's Viktor Orban. Takaichi has actively courted Trump's favor as Japan aims to stabilize its relationship with the U.S., following past tariffs imposed by Trump.

Trump initially threatened a hefty 25% tariff on Japanese imports, but after negotiations, Japan agreed in July to invest $550 billion in the U.S., prompting Washington to lower the tariff to 15%.

After becoming Prime Minister in October, Takaichi called for the snap election to gain a public mandate. In her brief tenure, she has already sought to reinforce diplomatic ties with the U.S., exemplified by her grand welcome of Trump during his recent visit to Japan.

During their meeting, Takaichi showcased her commitment to enhancing U.S.-Japan relations and emphasized mutual defense spending—an area both leaders are keen on improving amidst rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

There are predictions of a landslide victory for Takaichi in the elections. However, her real challenges lie ahead as she navigates Japan's stagnant economy and relationships with both the U.S. and China, the latter being Japan's largest trading partner. Addressing the ongoing diplomatic rift with Beijing will be paramount as geopolitical tensions rise, particularly regarding Taiwan.

Polls indicate strong support for Takaichi, but managing Japan's economic and diplomatic future will define her leadership as she moves beyond the electoral hurdle.