Japan is on the cusp of potentially electing its first woman prime minister or the youngest leader in its modern history after the Liberal Democratic Party's pivotal vote on Saturday.

Leading the race are conservative nationalist Sanae Takaichi, 64, promising bold economic reforms, and her moderate rival Shinjiro Koizumi, 44. The outcome will shape the future of Japan's oldest party, which faces internal crises and diminishing majorities.

With strong support from rank-and-file members, Takaichi advocates aggressive government spending, while Koizumi seeks consensus and tax cuts. Regardless of who wins, the new leader must reconcile the party's disconnection with voters amid rising opposition support.

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