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Takaichi, a long-time LDP politician and the first woman to hold the economic security portfolio, garnered the most support in the survey, surpassing other key figures within the party.
Takaichi’s support for increasing local vote influence is aimed at more accurately reflecting the preferences of party members and supporters. Currently, the presidential election process involves two rounds of voting. In the first round, votes are evenly split between Diet members and local party members/supporters. If no candidate secures a majority, the top two candidates advance to a runoff election. The runoff process, however, maintains the same split in vote allocation.
According to a survey conducted on September 15 and 16, none of the nine candidates are expected to secure an outright majority in the first round of voting on September 27. Consequently, a runoff election between the top two contenders appears likely. The survey, which targeted LDP supporters, shows Takaichi leading with 27.7%, followed by Ishiba at 23.7%, and Koizumi at 19.1%. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa trails at 6.3%, with other candidates such as Kobayashi Takayuki, Kamikawa Yoko, Kono Taro, Motegi Toshimitsu, and Kato Katsunobu showing even lower support.
Previously, at her candidacy press conference on September 9, Takaichi had been non-specific about her intentions regarding Yasukuni Shrine. At that time, she had only indicated a general desire to honor those who died for national policy. Today’s statement represents a clear and unambiguous commitment to visiting the controversial shrine, a site known for its historical and political sensitivities.
The candidates were united in their commitment to addressing LDP’s transparency and financial management issues. Minister of Economic Security Takaichi emphasized that strict measures would be enforced to prevent future infractions, insisting that penalties for misconduct would not be overturned. Kobayashi Takayuki proposed creating a 'Party Modernization Executive Headquarters' to establish and enforce new rules aimed at restoring trust through increased transparency.
The lack of clarity on this crucial matter has fueled ongoing debate among political analysts and opposition parties. The dissolution of the House of Representatives is a significant event in Japan's political landscape, often triggering general elections and potentially reshaping the legislative agenda. Traditionally, the timing of such a dissolution is a strategic decision influenced by various factors, including political calculations, public sentiment, and legislative priorities.
Takaichi, who has held various ministerial positions and is a respected voice within the LDP, outlined her vision for a more streamlined and efficient government. She advocates for a comprehensive reorganization of ministries and agencies to enhance administrative effectiveness and reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies. Her plan reflects a broader push for reform within Japan's governmental structure, aiming to address longstanding issues related to governance and public administration.
The decision to extend the campaign period has raised speculation that the party seeks to offer candidates ample time to solidify their support bases and communicate their policy visions.