Recent polling results from Japan reveal notable shifts in public sentiment concerning Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's cabinet. Conducted by Nikkei and Tokyo Television from December 20 to December 22, the survey indicates Kishida's approval rating has fallen to 41%, reflecting a drop of 5 percentage points from November. Correspondingly, the disapproval rating has risen to 51%, marking the first time it has surpassed the approval rate.
The survey asked respondents their reasons for supporting Kishida’s government. The most commonly cited reason, chosen by 39% of participants, was 'trustworthy character,' followed by 26% who noted it was because the cabinet is centered around the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Conversely, among those who disapprove of the government, 32% indicated dissatisfaction primarily due to its LDP-centric nature, and 30% felt it lacked international vision.
A significant finding from the poll highlights the public's views on pressing issues. When asked which topics they believe Kishida should prioritize, 38% of respondents pointed to strategies to tackle rising prices, with 36% emphasizing the need for comprehensive economic policies. Additional issues garnering attention included child-rearing and education policies, pension reform, and employment and wage improvements.
Shifts were also observed within the political party support structure. The LDP's support has seen a slight increase from 30% to 32% since November. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party for the People rose to 14% support, marking its highest ranking since its formation. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, once the second-choice party, has experienced a sharp decline from 16% to 9%, dropping it to the third position among party support rankings. The proportion of respondents identifying as independents also increased, rising from 19% to 24%.
The survey's insights touch on the broader sentiment surrounding Japan's energy policies. During the interview, respondents expressed majority support for the government’s recent decision to maximize the utilization of nuclear energy. Specifically, 55% of participants agreed with the government's new energy policy directive, which emphasizes the importance of nuclear energy, as opposed to the previously suggested reduction of reliance on it.
The overall discontent with the Kishida administration appears to stem from various public concerns, particularly economic challenges exacerbated by rising prices and stagnant wages. With key legislative sessions approaching, observers are especially interested to see how Kishida will address these pressing issues as he seeks to bolster his cabinet's credibility and regain public trust.
Conducted via random digit dialing, these findings are based on 774 responses from individuals aged 18 and older, yielding a response rate of 40.1%. This data paints a complex picture of the current political climate as Kishida navigates rising challenges and diminishing public support.
