
Looking at politics from a different perspective
Three campaigns in 15 months showed how fragile support can be — and how national power begins far from Tokyo.
The Japan Times
Has Takaichi secured a win? Conservative voters are returning to the LDP.
Takaichi’s confidence in calling an election just four months into her tenure as Japan’s leader comes from high public approval and a general fragmentation in the opposition ranks.
The Japan TimesFor the fourth time, two candidates in Tokyo with the surname Suzuki will be fighting for a seat in parliament, this time in the Feb. 8 Lower House election. But a party change could give a needed edge to one of them.
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A tale of two Suzukis: Lower House election sets up fourth duel between Tokyo candidates
The Liberal Democratic Party’s Hayato Suzuki has been beating the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan’s Yosuke Suzuki since 2017, but new party backing could turn the tables.
The Japan Times
Japan’s new ‘Centrist Reform Alliance’ is a misnomer
The Centrist Reform Alliance is asking voters to embrace a brand label rather than a fully formed policy platform and a partnership of convenience.
The Japan Times
Komeito and CDP form new party, but doubts linger over political viability
The new party, the Centrist Reform Alliance, has an uninspired name and logo, suggesting a rushed and unconvincing partnership.
The Japan TimesThe formation of a new party by the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and Komeito has the Liberal Democratic Party concerned, particularly over the fortunes of lawmakers who used to benefit from Komeito support.
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Formation of new party sparks concern in the ruling LDP
LDP lawmakers who won their seats with support from Komeito voters in the last general election could find themselves at a disadvantage.
The Japan TimesAs negotiations intensify over who will lead Japan, the Liberal Democratic Party and major opposition forces must consider the policy preferences of their core supporters before striking any deals.
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As they wrestle for power, Japan’s political parties must remember their base
Electoral fortunes are shaped — or undone — by parliamentary alignments, social and religious groups, and representation from industries and labor.
The Japan TimesIn an unusual move, ruling coalition junior partner Komeito has only said it will continue talking with the Liberal Democratic Party about remaining in the coalition following Sanae Takaichi becoming LDP president.
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After 26 years, Komeito may be showing signs it will break with LDP
Komeito not immediately endorsing Takaichi reflects deep concerns among Soka Gakkai members, the party’s main supporters in the lay Buddhist group, about her ideology and policies.
The Japan Times