Key Facts
• July 9: Niigata Upper House candidates joined an online debate.
• 46%: National burden rate from taxes and social insurance, cited by Eriko Hirai.
• Hirai proposed phasing out consumption tax and abolishing the invoice system.
• Sakuyo Uchikoshi emphasized a nationwide minimum wage of $10.50 (¥1,500).
• Mai Nakamura highlighted Niigata’s rice and sake industries and population decline.
• Nakamura advocated for U-turn/I-turn support and child-rearing policies.
• Kosei Harada suggested increased fiscal spending despite primary balance concerns.
Summary
On July 9, Niigata’s Upper House election candidates participated in an online debate addressing key regional issues. Eriko Hirai (Sanseitō) proposed abolishing consumption tax to ease financial burdens, while Sakuyo Uchikoshi (Constitutional Democratic Party) focused on wage equality and U-turn/I-turn migration. Mai Nakamura (Liberal Democratic Party) emphasized promoting Niigata’s local products and tackling population decline through child-rearing support. Kosei Harada (minor party) advocated for increased fiscal spending. The debate highlighted diverse strategies to address Niigata’s economic and demographic challenges.
