Key Facts
• July 3: Upper House election campaign officially begins.
• Ruling coalition aims to secure a majority, requiring over 50 seats.
• July 3-4: Polls suggest ruling coalition’s majority is uncertain.
• Third-party movements: National Democratic Party’s support rate drops after bold candidate selections.
• July 3: Sanseito leader Sohei Kamiya sparks controversy with remarks on older women and childbirth.
• July 3: National Democratic Party leader Yuichiro Tamaki delivers first speech at JR Shimbashi SL Square.
• July 3: Japan Conservative Party leader Naoki Hyakuta criticizes Japan’s current state.
• July 3: Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba delivers first speech in Hyogo Prefecture, signaling coalition unity.
• July 3: Constitutional Democratic Party leader Yoshihiko Noda begins campaign in Miyazaki Prefecture.
• July 3: Japan Communist Party and Social Democratic Party leaders launch campaigns in Tokyo.
• July 5: Former National Democratic Party member Shiori Yamao campaigns in central Tokyo.
• July 5-6: National Democratic Party focuses on Tokyo, avoiding Yamao’s base in Tama region.
• Japan Innovation Party struggles to regain momentum, emphasizing reduced social security costs.
Summary
The Upper House election campaign, which began on July 3, highlights significant political dynamics. The ruling coalition faces challenges in securing a majority, while third-party movements, such as the National Democratic Party and Sanseito, draw attention. Sanseito leader Sohei Kamiya’s controversial remarks on older women have sparked criticism, potentially impacting the party’s momentum. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s first speech in Hyogo Prefecture underscores coalition unity amid electoral struggles. Opposition parties, including the Constitutional Democratic Party and Japan Communist Party, aim to capitalize on the ruling coalition’s vulnerabilities. Former National Democratic Party member Shiori Yamao’s campaign in Tokyo reflects internal party tensions. The Japan Innovation Party, despite past successes, faces challenges in maintaining its influence. This election marks a critical juncture for Japan’s political landscape, with new and established parties vying for influence.
