In a shocking turn of events, Japan’s governing coalition is projected to lose its majority in the upper house of parliament, a development that could spell trouble for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and his embattled minority government. Exit polls indicate a surge in support for the far-right party, running on a “Japanese First” platform, reflecting deepening anti-foreigner sentiment amid a struggling economy.

With the results of Sunday’s elections, Ishiba faces mounting pressure from within his own party, as calls for his resignation grow louder. The loss follows a similar defeat in the lower house last year, leaving Ishiba in a precarious position where passing legislation could become a monumental challenge.

Economic woes, including skyrocketing rice prices and rising immigration—described by critics as a “stealth immigration policy”—have fueled discontent among voters. The far-right party is capitalizing on these grievances, projected to secure over 20 seats in the upper house, positioning itself as a formidable force unrestrained by the moderating influence of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

Mainstream media in Japan is reeling from the unexpected electoral shift, having spent weeks attempting to counter misinformation spread by the far-right. The rise of right-wing populism in Japan, once deemed unlikely, is now a stark reality, with implications that could alter the nation’s political landscape for years to come.

As Ishiba grapples with a weakened mandate, his ability to negotiate on the international stage—particularly with leaders like President Trump—will be severely compromised. This seismic shift could redefine Japan’s political trajectory and its role in global affairs, marking a watershed moment in the nation’s history.