Japan's PM Takaichi Seeks Election Mandate Amid Trump Endorsement and Market Concerns

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan's first female premier, is seeking a strong mandate in Sunday's snap election, with polls indicating her coalition could secure around 300 of the 465 lower house seats. Her campaign includes plans to suspend the 8% sales tax on food to ease inflation, which has unsettled investors concerned about Japan's debt. U.S. President Donald Trump has given Takaichi his full endorsement and invited her to the White House in March. Her coalition's potential super-majority could facilitate legislative control, while her defense policies may affect relations with China.