This is her third attempt at becoming prime minister, but perhaps not at the best time amid the troubles and struggles faced by her LDP party. Four prime ministers in five years is hardly convincing for a country that has long held a stable and steady political landscape.
In any case, the first round of votes has now started and the number needed for a majority is 233 votes. After a deal with Nippon Ishin, Takaichi outright should command 231 votes. So, any abstentions or defections could see her take it in the first round. If there is no majority, a second round of voting will be needed i.e. runoff vote at 0530 GMT.
