Japan is on the verge of a historic political moment. Sanae Takaichi, a 64-year-old conservative lawmaker, has been elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), putting her on course to become Japan’s first female prime minister. This milestone is a monumental step not only for gender equality in Japanese politics but also for the future direction of the country’s policies, both domestic and international. While she has not yet officially assumed the office—her confirmation is expected to take place during a parliamentary vote on October 15, 2025—her victory in the LDP leadership election on October 4, 2025, has positioned her as the next leader of Japan. As the first woman to take the helm of the LDP, Takaichi’s path to power signals potential seismic shifts in the country’s political landscape. But the bigger question remains: What kind of leader will Takaichi be, and what direction will she take Japan in? A Path to Power: Takaichi’s Rise in the LDP Sanae Takaichi ...