Japan’s first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, is emerging as a powerful figure on the world stage, following a path that echoes the “America First” doctrine championed by President Trump. Her agenda blends military bolstering, immigration control, and economic autonomy into a coherent strategy, reflecting a rising tide of conservatism in Japan. By advocating for a strong national defense and cultural preservation, Takaichi embodies a shift toward a more assertive Japan.
Takaichi, a protégé of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, draws from his legacy while infusing her leadership style with Trumpian principles. During her party leadership campaign, she echoed Abe’s famed slogan, insisting, “We must once again declare loudly, ‘Japan is back.'” This call for national revival resonates deeply with her proposed policies, which seek to uplift Japan’s global standing. Her slogans, such as “Make Japan Strong Again,” reflect her promise to restore national pride and confidence.
Central to Takaichi’s vision is an ambitious military strategy. Her commitment to increasing defense spending to 2 percent of GDP by March 2026—one year ahead of schedule—underscores her dedication to modernizing Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. Her focus includes enhancing cybersecurity and developing energy independence through nuclear fusion, emphasizing a proactive approach to national security. Inspired by a belief in Japan’s right to self-defense, she advocates for revising Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution, which currently limits military capabilities.
Takaichi’s foreign policy is marked by a robust stance against China. She has emerged as a strong critic of Beijing’s economic practices, calling attention to issues like intellectual property theft and advocating for reduced reliance on Chinese supply chains. By aligning with Trump’s approach, which prioritizes national interests in trade and security, she positions Japan as a formidable counterbalance to Chinese influence. Her visit to Taiwan in April 2025, where she declared Taiwan a “cherished friend,” exemplifies her commitment to regional allies in the face of growing threats.
On the economic front, Takaichi aims to enhance Japan’s global competitiveness while ensuring national security. Her proposal for a Comprehensive Economic Security Act seeks to curb technology transfers to hostile nations, particularly from China. This aligns with her broader strategy of securing supply chains and boosting self-sufficiency in crucial sectors, showing her intent to balance local needs with international cooperation.
Takaichi also mirrors her foreign policy resolve within domestic matters concerning immigration. She has pledged to impose strict controls on illegal migration, emphasizing compliance with Japanese laws. Her distinction between refugees and economic migrants highlights her administration’s hardline approach, as she stated, “For those who come [to Japan] with financial motives and claim that they are refugees, I’ll have you go home.” Her policies restrict foreign worker access to areas facing significant labor shortages, further reinforcing her stance against mass immigration and the preservation of national identity.
Culturally, Takaichi aligns herself with Japan’s conservative values, advocating for traditional family structures and a candid view of the country’s wartime past. Her involvement with Nippon Kaigi, a conservative organization, and her visits to the Yasukuni Shrine signify her commitment to reshaping Japan’s historical narrative. For her, honoring Japan’s heritage is a non-negotiable part of her identity as a leader, regardless of external criticism.
As a significant figure in the Liberal Democratic Party, Takaichi stands at the forefront of a new wave of conservatism—one that reflects parallels with right-wing movements around the globe. Her policies centered on military strength, national integrity, and cultural conservatism serve as a potential blueprint for a rising network of leaders inspired by Trump’s approach. Analysts suggest that Takaichi’s rise represents an evolution in political thought across regions, encapsulated in the phrase, “MAGA Makes Allies Great Again.”
Sanae Takaichi is poised to leave a mark on Japan’s political landscape, her leadership characterized by an unwavering dedication to restoring national pride and securing Japan’s position on the global stage. She embodies a resolve that aligns closely with a conservative resurgence, making her tenure one to watch closely as she leads Japan into a new era.
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