Key Facts
• Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election voting is scheduled for June 22, 2025.
• Inflation, including high rice and vegetable prices, is a key issue for voters.
• Policies by major parties:
– Liberal Democratic Party: App-based point rewards.
– Tomin First no Kai: Increased ‘018 Support’ benefits.
– Komeito: ¥10,000 in ‘Tokyo App’ points.
– Japanese Communist Party: ¥10,000 monthly rent subsidy for 1 million households.
– Constitutional Democratic Party: New rent subsidy system of ¥20,000 per month.
– Japan Innovation Party: 50% reduction in individual Tokyo resident tax.
• Other parties’ proposals include:
– Tokyo Seikatsusha Network: Stabilizing rice and vegetable prices.
– Democratic Party for the People: Increasing ‘018 Support’ to ¥15,000.
– Reiwa Shinsengumi: Universal cash benefits.
– Sanseito: Distribution of ‘Rice Coupons.’
– Social Democratic Party: Reduction or exemption of water and sewage fees.
• Voter concerns include high food costs and insufficient income growth.
Summary
With the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election approaching on June 22, 2025, inflation remains a critical issue for voters. Parties have proposed various measures to address rising costs, including rent subsidies, tax reductions, and app-based rewards. Voters, particularly in their 30s and 50s, express concerns over high food prices and stagnant incomes. The election serves as a prelude to the national House of Councillors election, with parties adopting strategies akin to national campaigns. The outcome may significantly impact daily life for Tokyo residents.
