Key Facts
• June 27, 2025: Taro Yamamoto, leader of Reiwa Shinsengumi, gave an interview ahead of the Upper House election.
• Election schedule: Official announcement on July 3, voting on July 20.
• Yamamoto described the election as a “fight for survival” and emphasized the slogan “Let us live.”
• Key proposals: Immediate abolition of the consumption tax, a temporary cash handout of 100,000 yen, and increased taxation on the wealthy.
• Yamamoto criticized the ruling party’s proposed 20,000-yen handout as insufficient to address rising prices.
• He highlighted Japan’s unique 30-year economic stagnation among developed nations, worsened by COVID-19 and inflation.
• Reiwa Shinsengumi plans to field 24 candidates in both constituency and proportional representation races.
• Yamamoto set a target of winning seven seats, stating this goal is necessary to achieve more.
• He accused the ruling Liberal Democratic Party of perpetuating economic struggles and failing to address consumption tax reduction.
• Reiwa’s advocacy for tax abolition has influenced parliamentary discussions over the past six years.
Summary
Taro Yamamoto, leader of Reiwa Shinsengumi, outlined his party’s platform ahead of Japan’s Upper House election, emphasizing the abolition of the consumption tax and financial relief for citizens. He criticized the ruling party’s proposed 20,000-yen handout as inadequate amidst inflation and economic stagnation. Yamamoto framed the election as a “fight for survival” and highlighted Reiwa’s influence in pushing tax reform discussions. The party aims to win seven seats, with 24 candidates running. Yamamoto stressed the need for bold measures to prevent Japan’s prolonged economic struggles from worsening.
