The Take Japan’s Iron Lady meets Trump
6 snips
Oct 28, 2025 In this discussion, Jeffrey J. Hall, a lecturer at Kanda University and expert on Japanese politics, analyzes the challenges faced by Japan's first female leader, Sanae Takaichi, as she meets with Trump. Hall highlights Takaichi’s unique rise to power and her admiration for Thatcher, revealing her nationalistic tactics. He delves into U.S.-Japan relations, potential trade negotiations, and public sentiment on China. With looming defense spending promises and economic crises, Hall offers insight into Takaichi’s political longevity amid these pressures.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
U.S.-Japan Ties Remain Strong
- The U.S.-Japan relationship is broadly cooperative, especially on security issues, despite occasional economic friction like tariffs.
- Trump is viewed as broadly friendly to Japan during this visit, reducing immediate diplomatic anxiety.
Symbolic Deals Over Renegotiation
- Tokyo plans symbolic economic moves (Ford trucks, shipbuilding deals, defense pledges) to please Trump rather than reopen tariff negotiations.
- The focus is on gestures and cooperation, not substantive renegotiation of past agreements.
Frame Investments As Targeted Projects
- Japan should frame investment commitments as targeted industry projects rather than raw cash to manage domestic constraints.
- Redirect Trump's expectations gently by offering investments already planned or targeted, not open-ended payments.