Japan’s political instability may have opened the door for Sanae Takaichi’s appointment as Prime Minister, but she must now find the key that locks it shut. Internal factional politics, the loss of a 26-year coalition partner, and potential shifts in foreign affairs are all factors to consider in Takaichi’s reign. By consolidating with both past and present strategies, both old and new partners, Japan’s new leader must confront this new age of change—however long she maintains her grip in office