Fresh opinion polls signal a strong comeback for Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) ahead of the critical February 8 elections to the House of Representatives. Reports from major outlets like The Japan Times, drawing on Nikkei and Yomiuri data, indicate the ruling party is on track to reclaim and expand its influence.

Prior to Prime Minister Sane Takaiichi’s surprise dissolution on January 23, LDP held 198 seats. Now, projections show gains beyond that, securing over 233 for majority control in the 465-member chamber. The party shines in conservative-leaning single-seat districts, leading in nearly 40% of 289 such areas, dominating prefectures like Kumamoto and Yamaguchi.

Intense battles rage in more than 150 districts, where rivals mount serious challenges. Proportional representation favors LDP with an estimated 70 seats, boosting its prior 59. Partnered with Japan Innovation Party, the bloc eyes 261 total seats, a lock on committee majorities.

Opposition Centrist Reform Alliance (CRA), once at 167 seats, may shrink to under 100—limited to about 40 single-seat victories and 40 proportional. Yomiuri polls confirm LDP leads in key regions like Chugoku and Kyushu, while JIP clings to Osaka but falters elsewhere.

Takaiichi’s bold call for elections stems from a need for voter endorsement since taking office in October. The prior setup left LDP with slim lower house edge and upper house weakness, complicating legislation.

This unprecedented early dissolution underscores the high stakes. A solid LDP win would empower Takaiichi’s agenda, from economic reforms to security policies, stabilizing governance in turbulent times.