In a modern twist fit for a political thriller, Japan—a nation with traditions older than almost anywhere else—has thrown a surprise with Sanae Takaichi becoming its first female prime minister. Picture this: an ancient society with traditions reaching back thousands of years, where emperors and a male-run prime minister’s office are the norm, now being led by a woman. One might think feminists across the globe would be holding parades and hashtag celebrations for Sanae Takaichi’s groundbreaking achievement. Alas, not even a tweet echoes in the digital feminist halls. So, what gives?

The silence of the women’s liberation movement, typically roaring at even the smallest advances for women’s rights, seems curiously quiet this time. Dig a bit deeper, though, and the reason becomes clear: Sanae Takaichi’s politics are more Margaret Thatcher than Hillary Clinton. She stands tall, championing policies that would make any traditionalist proud. With a firm belief in traditional marriage and an unwavering commitment to a “Japan First” agenda, Sanae Takaichi isn’t the poster child for progressive ideals, and that’s why the feminist fanfare is more like cricket chirps.

Now, let’s take a moment to chuckle at the irony. Here’s a powerful woman rising to the highest political office in a historically patriarchal nation, yet receiving less applause from the so-called champions of women’s empowerment than a mime at a rock concert. It’s almost as if, in the theater of feminist celebration, the script reads, “All women deserve recognition, so long as they speak our language.” Because, heaven forbid, a woman in power actually nurtures opinions that veer away from liberal orthodoxy.

Sanae Takaichi, with her admiration for Margaret Thatcher—another greatly ignored titan of female leadership—echoes Thatcher’s own legacy. Thatcher, often vilified or overlooked by modern feminist narratives, saved British society and proved that a strong woman could lead decisively and effectively. But because she didn’t drape herself in progressive plumage, statues of her remain rarer than unicorns in certain circles.

So, here’s a toast to Sanae Takaichi and what she represents: that true leadership knows no gender, and strong policies often defy categories. While certain factions shed feminist tears over her rise, the rest of us can grab the popcorn and enjoy the spectacle of true female empowerment in action. Because, in the end, what matters is the resolve and vision of a leader, not whether they fit someone else’s definition of an icon. Here’s hoping for more leaders who focus on their country’s prosperity, whether they’re in high heels or dress shoes. America first, Japan first, common sense first.