Why does the Liberal-Democratic Party include both nationalist and more progressive politicians?

The Liberal-Democratic Party (LDP) of Japan encompasses a broad ideological spectrum—ranging from right-wing nationalists to more liberal, progressive politicians—primarily because it functions as a "catch-all" party with a wide appeal, similar to the major political parties in the United States.1

This internal diversity is rooted in the party's formation in 1955, which resulted from the merger of two conservative parties, the Liberals and the Democrats, to create a unified conservative alternative to socialist and communist opposition. Because the LDP has held power almost continuously for decades, it has historically prioritized maintaining a broad coalition to secure electoral dominance rather than adhering to a rigid, singular ideology.2341

Internal divisions within the party, particularly regarding the constitution, the military, and foreign policy, are often generational. While older politicians have historically tended to be more cautious, younger members have frequently supported constitutional reform. Furthermore, for much of its history, the LDP was organized around factions based on personal ties and patronage rather than strict ideological alignment, allowing diverse political viewpoints to coexist under the party umbrella.13