Japan's PM Ishiba Wins Hearts Despite Election Loss

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is bouncing back in a big way, with a recent Kyodo News poll showing his approval rating soaring to 45%, up from just 31% last month.

This comes as a surprise after his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its partner, Komeito, took a hit in the July 20 Upper House election, losing their majority for the first time since 1955.

The LDP-Komeito coalition managed only 47 of the 50 seats needed to control the Upper House. Many voters were fed up with rising costs, especially for everyday staples like rice, and frustrated by ongoing political scandals.

Meanwhile, the far-right Sanseito party grabbed 14 seats with its anti-immigration message, and the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) snagged 22 seats, shaking up Japan’s political scene.

• PM Shigeru Ishiba’s Approval Rating Jumps Despite LDP’s Election Setback
• Japan’s Ishiba Gains Public Support After Upper House Loss and Rising Costs
• Shigeru Ishiba Wins Voter Trust as He Tackles Economy and Trade Challenges

At 68, Ishiba isn’t backing down. He’s promised to stay on as leader and tackle big challenges, like upcoming U.S. trade tariffs that could pinch Japan’s economy by August 1. His focus on easing financial struggles, like high prices and flat wages, is striking a chord with the public. The poll found 62% of people back his efforts to help, though some aren’t sold on his idea of giving 20,000 yen ($139) cash to low-income families.

Analysts say Ishiba’s grit is winning people over. “He’s showing he’s serious about fixing trade and economic issues, and that’s earning him some trust,” said Norihiro Yamaguchi from Oxford Economics. But not everyone’s cheering—some LDP insiders, like former Prime Minister Taro Aso, are questioning his leadership. The CDP, led by Yoshihiko Noda, is even mulling a no-confidence vote, which could stir up more trouble.

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Sanseito’s rise, with its “Japanese First” vibe, hints at a growing populist wave, making it tougher for Ishiba to keep his party together. With economic pressures and trade talks looming, Ishiba’s ability to hold onto this newfound public support will be crucial for keeping Japan steady and his leadership intact.