Japan's ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and comprising the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior partner Komeito, suffered a historic defeat in the 27th Upper House election held on July 20, 2025. Exit polls and media projections, including those from public broadcaster NHK, indicated that the coalition failed to secure the 50 seats needed to maintain a majority, winning only 47 seats. This marks the first time since 1955 that the LDP has lost its majority in both chambers of the National Diet, leaving Ishiba's government without control of the Upper House. The election was influenced by voter dissatisfaction over rising inflation, immigration policies, and looming US tariffs. Despite the setback and mounting pressure from within his party and the opposition, Ishiba initially vowed to remain in office to manage ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States and address economic challenges. However, reports emerged on July 23 that Ishiba intended to announce his resignation by the end of August, a move attributed to taking responsibility for the election loss. Ishiba subsequently denied these reports, reaffirming his commitment to stay in office and avoid a political vacuum during a critical period for Japan's economic and trade policies. The political uncertainty raises concerns about potential gridlock in parliament and the impact on fiscal policy and trade talks with the US.