June 09, 2026
The yen is hovering at 18-month lows against the dollar
Takaichi is considering holding the election on Feb 8, two ruling party lawmakers say
She has been enjoying high approval ratings since taking office
The main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party is projected to win 18 to 30 seats, from 22 held previously, NHK's exit poll shows
A poor showing in the upper house elections slated for Jul 20 will likely weaken his grip on power further
