Japan: Three things Takaichi aims to achieve with snap polls

Japan’s first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, has called a snap election for February 8, dissolving the Lower House just three months into her tenure. Takaichi seeks to secure a stronger LDP majority, gain a mandate for her tough China stance, and push through her aggressive economic reforms. Her campaign includes suspending the 8% sales tax on food for two years and increasing defense spending, aiming to capitalize on her high approval ratings.