What do two striking political facts tell us about the mood of the world today?

In Japan, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has just won the largest lower house majority in the history of the long-dominant Liberal Democratic Party. In Britain, Keir Starmer—who swept into office a year and a half ago—has sunk to the lowest popularity ratings ever recorded for a British prime minister.

What do two striking political facts tell us about the mood of the world today?

In Japan, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has just won the largest lower house majority in the history of the long-dominant Liberal Democratic Party. In Britain, Keir Starmer—who swept into office a year and a half ago—has sunk to the lowest popularity ratings ever recorded for a British prime minister.

On the surface, the stories seem unrelated. One leader rides a landslide; another struggles to stay afloat. But taken together, they reveal something deeper about the current political moment: Voters prefer rebellion to restoration.

Consider Britain first. After the tumultuous premierships of Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak—years marked by Brexit aftershocks, ethics scandals, fiscal panic and revolving-door leadership—Starmer offered something different. The Labour leader was the “keep calm and carry on” candidate. He promised seriousness, stability and competence. He would rebuild........

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