Key Facts
• June 30, 2025: Mizuho Umemura announces candidacy for Sanseitō in proportional representation.
• July 3, 2025: Official campaign period for House of Councillors election begins.
• July 20, 2025: Election day for House of Councillors.
• Umemura, 46, aims to validate Sanseitō’s policies and operations through her candidacy.
• Sanseitō has faced criticism as a “cult” or “conspiracy party,” which Umemura addressed.
• She highlighted strict regulations, including religious policies, as reasons for joining.
• Umemura denied claims of party leader Sohei Kamiya being a dictator.
• Previously elected in 2019 under Nippon Ishin no Kai, Umemura left the party in April 2025.
• She revealed her background as a “second-generation religious follower” and family struggles.
• Umemura expressed determination to create a “Sanseitō wave” during the summer election.
Summary
Mizuho Umemura, a 46-year-old member of the House of Councillors, announced her candidacy for Sanseitō in the upcoming July 2025 election. During a press conference on June 30, she emphasized her role in reinforcing the party’s credibility amid criticism labeling it a “cult” or “conspiracy party.” Umemura cited the party’s strict regulations, including religious policies, as a key factor in her decision to join, and dismissed claims of authoritarianism against leader Sohei Kamiya. Previously elected in 2019 under Nippon Ishin no Kai, she left the party in April 2025 after losing a primary. Umemura also shared her personal struggles as a “second-generation religious follower” and expressed her ambition to energize the election with a “Sanseitō wave.”
