Political Upheaval in Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe suddenly announced his resignation. He was a proponent of close ties with the U.S., a stronger political and military presence in Asia, and a constitutional amendment to allow the use of Japanese military forces for non-defensive purposes. His was strongly criticized by China and other regional powers for this stance, and his popularity has sunk in his own country, which seems more concerned with Japan's economy in general, and with the ability of the government to live up to its pension commitments to its elderly in particular. The nation has aged in recent decades, and the economy has stagnated. The repercussions from his resignation may lead to widespread reorganization of the government, and a clear shifting of mandate.

It's possible that a similar political situation may face the United States in coming decades. We'll have to wait and see.