Sohei Kamiya, leader of the Sanseito party, is challenging traditional political norms in Japan with his Trump-style populism. During a campaign speech at Takasaki Station, he outlined his platform, which centers on protecting Japanese workers from foreign competition, reducing reliance on global trade, and reinforcing national identity. Kamiya’s rhetoric has drawn comparisons to Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, with his emphasis on border control and American exceptionalism replaced by Japan’s focus on domestic priorities.
His populist message has tapped into growing public sentiment in Japan concerning immigration and economic security. With Japan’s aging population and labor shortages, Kamiya’s promises to prioritize Japanese workers have appealed to a segment of the electorate concerned about cultural preservation. Meanwhile, his calls to resist globalism have raised concerns among economic experts, who warn that such policies could undermine Japan’s long-standing economic partnerships. The election results could signal a significant shift in Japan’s political landscape, with right-wing populism gaining momentum against the backdrop of economic and social challenges.