But even at this level, rising prices are stoking divisions. Tokyo’s young and educated workers are winning pay gains that exceed inflation, and its well-heeled residents are benefiting as the equity and housing markets surge. Pensioners and workers on lower wages in rural areas, however, are going backward as the cost of living increases. Although support for Takaichi’s premiership remains high following a resounding electoral victory that saw her win a supermajority in the Lower House in February, opinion polls show prices remain the top public concern. Takaichi has sought to cushion households from rising costs through measures including energy subsidies. But many pensioners have seen little relief, as their payments have lagged behind the cost of living for years.