Trump endorses Japan’s Takaichi ahead of snap election

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Japan’s Takaichi ahead of snap election, throwing Washington’s political influence into the intense and closely watched electoral contest in Tokyo. The endorsement, delivered via social media and amplified by Trump’s allies, marks a rare intervention by a former U.S. leader in Japanese domestic politics — and it has stirred debate both in Japan and internationally over foreign influence, alliances and the future direction of the U.S.–Japan relationship.

Trump’s backing comes as Japan prepares for an unexpected general election called amid growing domestic pressures, economic uncertainty and shifting regional security dynamics. Yuriko Takaichi, a leading figure in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and a former defence minister, secured Trump’s endorsement following a series of meetings and phone calls between their respective political teams.

In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “I proudly endorse Japan’s Takaichi for Prime Minister of Japan. She is strong, decisive, and will work with the United States to keep our nations safe and prosperous. A vote for Takaichi is a vote for strength and stability in the Indo-Pacific.” The message quickly drew thousands of replies and was picked up by international media outlets.

A Controversial Move

Trump’s intervention has ignited debate and criticism on multiple fronts. Many analysts note that former U.S. presidents rarely wade directly into foreign electoral politics, especially in allied democracies. Critics argue that such endorsements can blur diplomatic norms, creating tension between sovereignty and strategic influence.

Japan’s Constitution and political norms stress autonomy in domestic political decision-making, and several opposition parties reacted strongly to Trump’s message. The country’s largest opposition bloc, the Constitutional Democratic Party, condemned the endorsement as “unwarranted interference,” urging voters not to let foreign political figures influence internal debates.

Supporters, however, maintain that Trump’s backing could signal stronger security cooperation and continuity of the U.S.–Japan alliance, particularly at a time when tensions with China and North Korea are escalating.

Who Is Yuriko Takaichi?

Takaichi, often described as a conservative hardliner within the LDP, has risen through party ranks with a platform emphasising national security, economic revitalisation, and closer defence ties with the United States. She previously served as Minister of Defence and Minister of Internal Affairs, gaining a reputation for assertive positions on regional security and domestic reform.

Takaichi’s campaign has focused on strengthening Japan’s self-defence capabilities, bolstering economic growth through regulatory reform, and deepening strategic partnerships with like-minded democracies. Trump’s endorsement is widely seen as bolstering her credentials among right-leaning voters and those who favour a firm stance on security issues. Nonetheless, it also risks polarising voters who prioritise domestic socio-economic policy or who remain wary of close alignment with U.S. foreign policy.

Domestic Political Reactions

Within Japan, the endorsement served as a rallying point for both Takaichi’s supporters and her critics. Liberal opposition parties warned that foreign endorsements could backfire by energising nationalist sentiments and anti-establishment voters. Former prime minister and opposition leader Kenta Izumi criticised the message, saying: “Japanese voters will make their choice based on Japan’s interests, not signals from abroad.”

Some political commentators caution that the timing of Trump’s intervention — just weeks before the election — could overshadow domestic policy discussions, diverting attention from issues such as healthcare, labour market reforms, and economic inequality.

International and Regional Context

Trump’s endorsement comes amid heightened regional tensions in East Asia. China’s assertiveness in the East and South China seas, North Korea’s missile tests, and global competition over technology and supply chains have pushed security issues to the forefront of Japanese politics. For the United States, Japan remains a cornerstone ally in the Indo-Pacific, and leadership in Tokyo is seen as pivotal to sustaining regional deterrence strategies.

Security experts suggest that Trump’s endorsement of Takaichi may signal a desire to reinforce this alliance and ensure that leadership in Tokyo remains aligned with key U.S. objectives in the region. “From a strategic perspective, it underscores the importance Washington places on Japan’s role in countering emerging threats,” said one Washington-based foreign policy analyst.

Trump’s Influence on Global Politics

Trump’s involvement in a foreign election also highlights his enduring influence on international affairs, even after leaving office. The endorsement reflects a broader pattern in which Trump and his allies seek to shape global political outcomes in ways that mirror their worldview — particularly regarding security alliances and economic policy. However, it also carries risks, potentially drawing criticism from governments and voters who view outside endorsements as infringing on domestic democratic processes.

What Comes Next

With polls indicating a competitive race, analysts say Trump’s endorsement may help rally some segments of the electorate around Takaichi’s campaign. Yet it could also energise opposition forces who argue that Japan must chart its own course free from foreign influence.

As the election approaches, Japan’s political landscape is expected to remain in flux. Voter turnout, party coalitions, and the framing of key policy debates — from national security to social welfare — will shape the outcome in ways that extend far beyond the implications of a single endorsement.

For now, Trump’s public backing means that the spotlight on Japan’s election has grown even brighter on the global stage, with leaders and observers alike watching to see how voters respond to an unprecedented intervention from a former U.S. president.