Key Facts
• June 20: Ordinary Diet session concluded, signaling the start of the election race.
• July 3: Official announcement of the Upper House election expected.
• Kagoshima constituency: Four candidates competing for one seat.
• LDP candidate Shuko Sonoda (68): Focused on expanding support in the 3rd district and online.
• Independent candidate Tomomi Otsuji (44): Preparing materials for four rallies and greeting voters.
• Communist Party candidate Makoto Matsuzaki (67): Organizing a 500-person rally on June 22 and office opening on June 25.
• Sanseito candidate Shunichi Makino (39): Promoting via bicycle commutes and distributing flyers.
• LDP’s local presence: Party Secretary-General Moriyama’s influence adds pressure to the campaign.
• Sanseito’s growing recognition: Increased attention compared to last year’s Lower House election.
Summary
The upcoming Upper House election in Kagoshima has entered a heated phase, with four candidates vying for a single seat. The election race unofficially began after the Diet session ended on June 20, with the official announcement expected on July 3. Candidates include Shuko Sonoda (LDP), Tomomi Otsuji (Independent), Makoto Matsuzaki (Communist Party), and Shunichi Makino (Sanseito). Each campaign is intensifying efforts, from organizing rallies to distributing flyers. The LDP faces heightened stakes due to Secretary-General Toshimitsu Moriyama’s local ties, while Sanseito is leveraging its growing recognition. The race underscores the competitive political landscape in Kagoshima.
