Key Facts
• Chiba’s Isumi mayoral election announced on November 23, voting set for November 30.
• Three independent newcomers are running: Kazue Takahara (54), Masakazu Shoji (57), Haruyuki Sakuma (75).
• Incumbent Hiroshi Ota (77) retires after five terms, marking a leadership change after 20 years.
• Key issues include population decline, healthcare, and welfare policies.
• Shoji is endorsed by local branches of the Liberal Democratic Party, Constitutional Democratic Party, Japan Innovation Party, and Democratic Party for the People.
• Ota supports Takahara, citing admiration for her proposed policies.
• Early voting runs November 24–29, 8:30 AM–8:00 PM, at three locations.
• Election day voting is from 7:00 AM–8:00 PM at 13 locations.
• Vote counting will occur at Ohara Junior High School gymnasium.
• Voter registration as of November 22: 30,133 people.
Summary
The Isumi mayoral election in Chiba Prefecture, announced on November 23, features three independent newcomers vying for leadership after incumbent Hiroshi Ota’s retirement. Candidates Kazue Takahara, Masakazu Shoji, and Haruyuki Sakuma are focusing on critical issues like population decline and healthcare. Shoji has bipartisan support from local political organizations, while Ota backs Takahara. Voting will take place on November 30, with early voting available from November 24–29. The election marks a significant leadership transition for the city after two decades.
