Public Support for Political Parties Hits 11-Year Low

TOKYO, Feb 19 (News On Japan) - In a public opinion poll conducted by NNN and Yomiuri Shimbun from February 16 to 18, 52 percent of respondents said they did not support any political party, a 4-point increase from the previous January survey.

This marks the first time "no party support" has exceeded 50% since November 2012, during the final phase of the Democratic Party of Japan's administration.

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) saw a 1-point decrease from the January survey to 24%, the lowest since its return to power in 2012.

The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan stood at 5%, Nippon Ishin no Kai at 4%, Komeito at 4%, the Japanese Communist Party at 2%, and the Democratic Party for the People at 2%. No respondents expressed support for the Party to Realize Free Education.

Reiwa Shinsengumi had 2% support, while the Social Democratic Party and Sanseito both had 0%.

In light of the political funding scandal involving LDP factions, 81% believed that strict measures should be taken against Abe faction executives involved in the incident.

Regarding the LDP's investigation into undeclared political funds, 77% thought it would not lead to a full understanding of the issue.

As for the dissolution of factions such as the Abe, Kishida, and Nikai factions, 76% did not believe it would restore trust in the LDP.

Regarding explanations to the public by faction executives, 93% felt they were insufficient, nearly unchanged from 92% in the January survey.

Support for the Kishida cabinet remained at 24%, tied for the lowest since the administration's inception.

When asked who is suitable for the next LDP president, former Secretary-General Ishiba was at 21%, former Environment Minister Koizumi at 17%, and Digital Minister Kono at 10%.

Foreign Minister Kamikawa rose to fourth place with 8%, while Prime Minister Kishida was tied for sixth place at 4%.

Regarding the government's proposal for a child-rearing support fund, with an average monthly burden of less than ¥500 per person, 60% did not approve of the plan.

Source: NNN

Japan Troops Begin Bear Countermeasures

The worsening string of bear incidents across Akita Prefecture has prompted the deployment of the Ground Self-Defense Force to assist in countermeasures. On November 5th, fifteen members of the 21st Infantry Regiment based at the Akita garrison were sent to Kazuno City, where they began support activities such as transporting box traps for capturing bears.

What Is Sanaenomics?

The economic policy bannered by Prime Minister Takaichi as “Sanaenomics” is beginning to take shape, with expectations centering on lower gasoline prices and the restart of electricity and gas subsidies even as critics say the program’s substance remains unclear and insufficiently developed.

Typhoon No. 26 Forming, May Impact Japan

As of 3 p.m. on November 5th, a tropical depression over the sea near the Caroline Islands was slowly moving northward, with the Japan Meteorological Agency forecasting that it would develop into a typhoon within the next 24 hours. Once it forms, it will be designated as Typhoon No. 26.

Morning-After Pill to Be Sold Over the Counter by Year-End

Emergency contraceptive pills, used to prevent unintended pregnancies, are set to become available over the counter in Japan as early as by the end of this fiscal year, marking a major shift after nearly a decade of debate.

Crimes by U.S. Military Personnel Hit Record High in Okinawa

The number of U.S. military personnel arrested for criminal offenses in Okinawa has reached 77 so far this year, already surpassing the record total for all of 2024 as of the end of September.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Politics NEWS

Takaichi Apologizes Over Political Funds Scandal

Prime Minister Takaichi began her responses in the House of Councillors on November 5th with an apology over political funds issues, as parliamentary questioning continued following her policy speech.

Japan to Tighten Visa Rules on Foreigners Behind on Health Insurance

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare plans to introduce a new system starting in June 2027 that will, in principle, deny changes or renewals of residence status for foreign residents who fail to pay their national health insurance premiums despite repeated requests for payment.

China Extends Visa-Free Entry for Japan

China’s Foreign Ministry announced that it will extend visa-free entry for Japan, France, and 43 other countries until the end of December 2026, as the government seeks to attract more overseas investment and tourists amid a prolonged economic slowdown.

Singapore and Japan Deepen Ties for ASEAN Prosperity

As the new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, begins her term, many countries are sending in facilitation letters and also pledging their commitment to mutually beneficial ties.

Japan Faces Legal Hurdles in Deploying Military for Bear Control

Japan’s worsening bear problem has prompted calls for national intervention, but legal and operational barriers have complicated the government’s response. In 2025, bear attacks have reached record levels, leaving 12 people dead—double the previous high of six fatalities in 2023.

LDP and Ishin Launch Weekly Policy Talks on Regional Revitalization

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and the Japan Innovation Party (Ishin) confirmed during a meeting in Tokyo that they will establish a new council this week composed of each party’s policy chiefs to deepen cooperation on policy matters.

Trump’s Defeat by the Nobel Prize: What Was He Really Thinking?

As expected, the previously outspoken U.S. President Donald Trump did not win the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. However, he was forced to put on a brave face—Venezuela’s María Machado was the recipient.

Takaichi and Xi Hold 10-Second Handshake

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping stood side by side before the cameras on October 31st at 5 p.m. for a moment that drew intense attention. “Hello, please this way,” said Xi as the two leaders exchanged a handshake lasting roughly 10 seconds in front of their national flags. Takaichi’s expression was stiff at first but softened slightly into a faint smile, while Xi’s face remained largely unchanged.

< 2 3 4 5 >