Lawmakers from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party vented their frustration on Thursday over the party’s crushing defeat in last month’s general election, with calls rising for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to consider resigning once the budget for the next fiscal year clears the parliament next spring.

Thursday’s move reflects a sense of crisis among party members, especially Upper House lawmakers who will face election next summer, who are worried if they can win support under Ishiba, who also serves as LDP president.

During Thursday’s meeting, attended by 186 members, Ishiba apologized for the election outcome.