Key Facts
• On September 11, Governor Hiroshi Hase announced his bid for a second term in the 2026 Ishikawa gubernatorial election.
• On September 12, Hase sought election support from non-LDP parties, groups, and Ishikawa Union.
• Hase emphasized running as a “Citizen Party” candidate, distancing himself from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
• Hase submitted a recommendation request to the non-LDP faction “Future Ishikawa” in the prefectural assembly.
• Future Ishikawa Chair Osamu Yoshida expressed surprise but welcomed Hase’s “Citizen Party” stance.
• Reactions from other parties varied:
– Komeito: Uncertain about endorsing Hase.
– Democratic Party for the People: Awaiting other candidates before commenting.
– Ishikawa Restoration Party: Focused on reform agreements.
– Sanseito: Praised Hase’s agility but noted mixed perceptions of his actions.
• No other candidates have declared their intention to run as of now.
• Political parties are expected to finalize their decisions by the end of the year.
Summary
Governor Hiroshi Hase of Ishikawa Prefecture has announced his re-election bid for the 2026 gubernatorial election, emphasizing a “Citizen Party” approach to garner support beyond the LDP. On September 12, he actively sought endorsements from non-LDP factions, including Future Ishikawa and Ishikawa Union. While some parties welcomed his stance, others remain undecided, citing the need for further deliberation. No other candidates have declared their candidacy, and final decisions from political parties are expected by year-end.
