Japan’s ruling coalition has lost its majority in the House of Councillors, the country’s upper house of parliament. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s coalition won only 47 seats — three short of its target. Meanwhile, the right-wing populist party Sanseitō gained significant traction, securing 14 seats with its “Japan First” campaign. Rising living costs, inflation, and political scandals are believed to have driven voter dissatisfaction.