Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is facing her first major political storm since taking office, with approval ratings plunging 4-10 percentage points in January 2026 polls. Analysts call it a 'wake-up call' for her administration as public confidence wavers.
What's Cooking the Numbers?
The drop follows Takaichi's controversial decision to call early elections – a move critics call 'political gambling' 🎲. But the real heat comes from her flagship zero food tax policy, which many young voters now see as ineffective against Japan's persistent inflation (currently at 5.2%).
Ramen Bowl Economics 🍜
While the policy initially made instant noodles and sushi rolls cheaper, shoppers like 24-year-old Tokyo resident Yuki Nakamura tell us: 'Prices keep rising for everything else – rent, utilities, even konbini snacks. It feels like saving ¥100 on groceries but losing ¥1000 elsewhere.'
What's Next?
With approval now below the critical 40% threshold, all eyes are on February's policy review. Will Takaichi double down on her economic strategy or pivot? Political risk analyst Kenji Sato warns: 'This could become Japan's 'Winter of Discontent' if not handled carefully.'
