The morning began with Ishiba's Cabinet resignation, leading to a rare runoff vote for Prime Minister - the first in 30 years. The first round saw Ishiba secure 221 votes against Noda's 151, with 84 invalid votes reflecting internal party tensions.
By early afternoon, Ishiba emerged victorious but without a parliamentary majority, marking Japan's first minority government since 1979. The Second Ishiba Cabinet formed with three new ministers, while maintaining most positions from his previous administration.
Meanwhile, Democratic Party leader Tamaki acknowledged reports of an extramarital relationship but maintained his position after party deliberations. The evening saw Ishiba announce a 10 trillion yen tech investment initiative and commit to political funding reform legislation by year-end, addressing the ongoing faction slush fund scandal that precipitated this political transition.
In parallel developments, the US-stationed intermediate-range missiles remained in Philippines post-exercises, drawing Chinese protests.