The official campaign for the Japan upper house election started Thursday, setting the stage for a high-stakes political battle. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s minority government faces growing voter frustration over inflation, making this a critical test for his leadership.
The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito aim to keep their majority in the 248-seat upper house. To do so, they must secure at least 50 of the 125 contested seats. While analysts call this target achievable, Ishiba admits it won’t be easy given his sagging approval ratings.
The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP), the largest opposition group, hopes to strip the ruling bloc of its upper house control. The LDP-Komeito coalition already lost its majority in the House of Representatives last October, emboldening rivals.
During a campaign stop in Kobe, Ishiba promised to tackle inflation. “Wage growth must outpace rising prices,” he declared, referencing his disaster-prevention policies and cash handout pledges. Meanwhile, CDP leader Yoshihiko Noda slammed the government’s inaction on food prices in Miyazaki, vowing to temporarily scrap the 8% food tax.
With over 520 candidates competing, economic concerns dominate the Japan upper house election. Soaring rice prices and stagnant wages have angered voters, pushing parties to offer competing solutions:
- The LDP promises 20,000 yen ($125) per person in relief payouts.
- Opposition parties demand consumption tax cuts or suspensions.
Trade tensions with the U.S. also loom large. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats on Japanese goods have stalled negotiations, forcing Ishiba to vow he won’t sacrifice farmers for market access.
The opposition’s stronger footing since October’s general election has weakened Ishiba’s legislative control. A poor showing could further destabilize his government, especially with populist party Sanseito gaining traction.
The July 20 Japan upper house election is a referendum on Ishiba’s crisis management—from inflation to disaster preparedness. With households squeezed and political tensions rising, the outcome may reshape Japan’s policy direction for years to come.
