Key Facts
• July 3, 2025: Yuichiro Tamaki announces policy revision during campaign speech in Tokyo.
• Original policy (June 17): “Review excessive benefits for foreigners, prioritize Japanese taxpayers.”
• Revised policy: “Ensure proper application of systems for foreigners.”
• Revision followed criticism labeling the original policy as “xenophobic.”
• Tamaki clarified the revision aimed to prevent misunderstandings.
• No explanation of the revision was provided during the July 2 additional policy announcement.
• Tamaki indicated potential further updates to policies during the election period.
Summary
Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the Democratic Party for the People, announced on July 3, 2025, a revision to the party’s policy on foreign resident benefits following criticism of its original wording as “xenophobic.” Initially introduced on June 17, the policy proposed reviewing “excessive benefits for foreigners” and prioritizing Japanese taxpayers. The revised version now emphasizes ensuring the proper application of systems for foreigners. Tamaki explained the change was made to avoid misunderstandings and better convey the party’s intentions. However, the revision was not mentioned during the additional policy announcement on July 2. Tamaki also suggested that further updates to policies might occur during the election period.
