Key Facts
• June 22, 2025: Tokyo Assembly election held in Chiyoda Ward (1 seat available).
• Saori Sato, 35, an independent candidate, won her first election.
• Sato defeated six candidates, including incumbent Kiyosho Taira, 37, from Tomin First.
• Sato previously placed second in the February 2025 Chiyoda mayoral election with 6,474 votes.
• Her YouTube channel has over 360,000 subscribers; campaign videos reached 10,000–20,000 views.
• Sato’s platform included a 10% reduction in individual Tokyo resident taxes and foreign land acquisition restrictions.
• She emphasized public safety, tax cuts, and social insurance reforms in her campaign.
• Sato conducted her campaign without a formal organization, campaign car, or office.
• Tomin First leader Takayuki Morimura expressed disappointment over Taira’s loss.
• Sato described her victory as a “miracle” and credited Chiyoda residents for their support.
Summary
Saori Sato, a 35-year-old independent candidate, achieved a groundbreaking victory in the June 22, 2025, Tokyo Assembly election for Chiyoda Ward, defeating six opponents, including incumbent Kiyosho Taira of Tomin First. Sato, who previously placed second in the February 2025 Chiyoda mayoral race, attributed her success to grassroots efforts and support from residents. Her campaign, which lacked traditional resources like a campaign car or office, relied heavily on social media, including her YouTube channel with over 360,000 subscribers. Sato’s platform focused on public safety, tax reductions, and social insurance reforms, with key proposals such as a 10% cut in individual Tokyo resident taxes and restrictions on foreign land acquisitions. She described her victory as a “miracle” and a sign of changing times, urging residents to hold her accountable as she begins her term. Tomin First leader Takayuki Morimura expressed regret over Taira’s loss, highlighting the competitive nature of the election.
