Discussions are intense regarding the political environment in Tokyo, because according to available information, the popularity of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi remains strong this month also. The latest survey by Nikkei and TV Tokyo put his approval rating at 75%, up one percentage point from the previous month. Let us tell you that after assuming office in October, his popularity has remained above 70% for the second consecutive month.
It is noteworthy that in the survey, Takaichi’s supporters have described him as trustworthy. A total of 37% cited “credibility” as the biggest reason for support, while 34% said the Prime Minister’s “strong leadership” was the reason for their choice. On the other hand, the level of disagreement has come down by one percent to 18%. Among those who disagreed, 35% said they do not like the LDP-led cabinet, while 30% believe cabinet members are untrustworthy.
Meanwhile, the government has also approved the draft of an additional budget for measures related to economic stimulus and inflation relief. It is also being told that 35% people consider these measures effective in reducing the effect of inflation, while 40% have a different opinion.
On the question of policy priorities, 55% of the respondents said relief from inflation as the top issue, while 32% advised to give priority to economic development and 31% to diplomacy and security. Issues related to pension and employment-salary are considered important by 26-26% people. Let us tell you that a few days ago the Prime Minister had described the possible attack on Taiwan as an “existential threat” for Japan.Public opinion was divided on this issue. 55% of the survey considered this comment appropriate, while 30% considered it inappropriate.
Takaichi’s first bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump has been received positively by the public. A total of 69% people considered this meeting successful, while 18% disagreed.
The figures of support of political parties were also interesting. The support of the Prime Minister’s party LDP has increased by 5 percent to 41%. In contrast, support for coalition partner Japan Innovation Party has dropped to 5%. Among opposition parties, Sanseito has gained 1 percent to reach 7%, while both the CDP and DPP stand at 6%. About 22% of respondents said they did not support any party, which is similar to the previous survey.
The survey was conducted between Friday and Sunday through random-digit dialing method, in which the opinions of 1,006 people above 18 years of age were included.
These latest survey results show that public confidence in the new government in Japan still remains strong, and it is believed that the policy performance in the coming months will make its political impact more evident and that is why the Prime Minister’s popularity appears to be stable at the moment.