Key Facts
• June 20: Japanese Parliament effectively closed, Senate election campaign begins.
• Hokkaido district: 11 candidates competing for 3 seats, vote fragmentation expected.
• May 2025: JNN poll shows Democratic Party support dropped by 3.4 points.
• Democratic Party candidate Masaki Suzuki (33) focuses on inflation and wage issues.
• Constitutional Democratic Party candidate Kenji Katsube (65) proposes zero food tax for one year.
• Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) candidates face challenges; Takashi Iwamoto (60) and Harumi Takahashi (71) emphasize economic relief.
• LDP promises a uniform cash payment of ¥20,000 to address inflation.
• Other candidates include representatives from Japan Innovation Party, Communist Party, and others.
• June 22: Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election results may influence Senate election.
• Expert highlights Middle East tensions and Tokyo election as key factors.
• One month remains until the decisive election day.
Summary
The Japanese Senate election campaign has officially begun, with Hokkaido’s three contested seats drawing significant attention. A total of 11 candidates, including representatives from major parties like the Democratic Party, Constitutional Democratic Party, and Liberal Democratic Party, are vying for these seats. Key issues include inflation, wage increases, and economic relief, with candidates proposing measures such as zero food tax and cash payments. The Liberal Democratic Party faces internal challenges, with its candidates under pressure amid declining support. The Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election on June 22 is expected to serve as a critical indicator for the Senate race. Experts also point to Middle East tensions as a potential disruptor, particularly regarding oil prices. With one month remaining, the election’s outcome remains uncertain.
