Japan’s Potential First Female Prime Minister: A Heavy Metal Drummer

Sanae Takaichi, who may soon become Japan’s first female prime minister, has a surprisingly colorful background as a heavy metal drummer. Reports indicate that she shares a rapport with President Trump.

If elected president of the Liberal Democratic Party and able to form a parliamentary coalition, Takaichi is poised for a historic role. She’s made headlines not just for her political ambitions but also for her passion for heavy metal music. While attending Kobe University, she played drums in a band and grew fond of groups like Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden. Beyond music, she’s a car and motorcycle enthusiast, finding that her unique past helped her stand out in Japan’s bustling political environment.

Despite her unique profile, connection issues with a coalition partner have somewhat stalled her progress, particularly with Japan’s parliament set to reconvene on October 21st. President Trump has already commented on Takaichi’s rise, labeling it “amazing news.” Known for her hardline stances on immigration, she’s also recognized as a “China hawk,” advocating for enhanced Japanese defense.

“I think she’ll have a good relationship with President Trump, as there hasn’t been a Japanese prime minister who hasn’t,” remarked Senator Bill Hagerty, a former U.S. ambassador to Japan.

Takaichi cites Margaret Thatcher as a major influence. Her time in the U.S. as a student in the late 1980s included an internship with Pat Schroeder, a former congresswoman.

Her past visits to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors Japan’s war dead, have sparked debate, particularly among Chinese and South Korean officials who link it to militarism.

Significantly, Takaichi was a mentee of Shinzo Abe, Japan’s late prime minister, who had a friendly relationship with Trump. Following Abe’s assassination in 2022, Trump praised him as a “great man.”

Indicating that Trump holds a favorable view of her, sources suggest that Takaichi and the former president may discuss trade challenges during his upcoming trip to Asia.

Being in Trump’s good graces comes with advantages—after meeting with him, Argentina’s President recently secured a substantial economic bailout.

Interestingly, Senator Lindsey Graham, a close associate of Trump, offered Takaichi some lighthearted advice: “Playing heavy metal drums might not be the best way to connect with Trump World. You might want to take up golf instead.”