Key Facts
• Voting for Japan’s Upper House election is scheduled for July 20, 2025.
• The ruling coalition’s majority is uncertain, hinging on 32 single-member districts.
• Kagawa’s single-member district sees six candidates competing in a heated race.
• Incumbent Shingo Miyake (63, Liberal Democratic Party) faces strong opposition.
• Miyake is closely trailing newcomer Shuichi Harada (52, Democratic Party for the People).
• 40% of voters in Kagawa remain undecided, per JNN’s early polling.
• Harada, supported by DPP leader Yuichiro Tamaki, emphasizes economic reform.
• Other candidates include Naomi Kobayashi (Sanseitō), Maki Nagao (Communist Party), and two independents.
• Nationwide, the ruling coalition needs 50 seats to maintain a majority.
• Current projections show the coalition leading in only 9 single-member districts.
• Rising living costs and political scandals are impacting voter sentiment.
• The Sanseitō party’s growing influence could disrupt both ruling and opposition votes.
Summary
Japan’s upcoming Upper House election on July 20, 2025, presents a critical test for the ruling coalition, which faces challenges in securing a majority. The focus is on 32 single-member districts, particularly Kagawa, where six candidates are locked in a tight race. Incumbent Shingo Miyake of the Liberal Democratic Party is trailing Shuichi Harada of the Democratic Party for the People, with 40% of voters still undecided. Economic concerns, political scandals, and the Sanseitō party’s rising influence are shaping voter sentiment. Nationwide, the coalition must secure 50 seats to maintain its majority, but early projections suggest a tough battle ahead. The outcome in Kagawa and other key districts will be pivotal in determining the balance of power.
