Voting took place on the 20th for the 27th House of Councillors election. With 125 seats up for grabs, the number of seats each party won was decided, with the Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito failing to maintain a majority in the House of Councillors, becoming minority parties in the House of Councillors just as they had in the House of Representatives.
【For more information, click here】Proportional representation results

【Election Results】Special website for the 2025 House of Councillors Election
Click here for the results of the nationwide electoral districts and proportional representation
[From the map] Latest situation by electoral district and polling station
Click on the map to see information on the winning constituencies and the vote counting results for each polling station. Switch between the tabs to view information on"Constituencies" and "Polling Stations."
[Fully confirmed] Seats won by each party
The number of seats each party will win in the House of Councillors election, which was contested with 125 seats up for grabs, has now been decided.
▽LDP: 27 seats in electoral districts and 12 seats in proportional representation, for a total of 39 seats
▽Constitutional Democratic Party: 15 seats in electoral districts and 7 seats in proportional representation, for a total of 22 seats
▽Democratic Party for the People: 10 seats in electoral districts and 7 seats in proportional representation, for a total of 17 seats▽Senpai Party: 7 seats in electoral districts and 7 seats in proportional representation, for a total of 14 seats
▽Komeito: 4 seats in electoral districts and 4 seats in proportional representation, for a total of 8 seats▽Japan Restoration Party: 3 seats in electoral districts and 4 seats in proportional representation, for a total of 7 seats
▽Communist Party: 1 seat in electoral district and 2 seats in proportional representation, for a total of 3 seats▽Reiwa Shinsengumi: 3 seats in proportional representation
▽Japan Conservative Party: 2 seats in proportional representation▽Social Democratic Party: 1 seat in proportional representation
▽Team Mirai: 1 seat in proportional representation▽Independents: 8 seats in electoral districts
LDP wins only 12 proportional representation seats, tying record low
The LDP won just 12 seats through proportional representation, the lowest number since the 2010 election 15 years ago.
Komeito wins only 8 seats, lowest number ever
The Komeito Party won only eight seats, the lowest number ever, down from the previous low of nine seats 15 years ago in 2010.
CDP secures 22 seats up for election
The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan secured 22 of the seats up for re-election.
The Communist Party remains with only three seats, unable to submit bills on its own
The Communist Party only managed to get three seats, fewer than the seven seats up for re-election. Even if the non-re-election seats are included, the party's total will be seven, meaning it will no longer be able to submit bills on its own in the House of Councillors.
[Commentary] The ruling party loses the majority. It will be broadcast on the 21st at 6:00 on"Good Morning Japan." (It cannot be viewed on data broadcasting.)
Q. The ruling party lost its majority. How do you view the result?
A. (Political Department, Nishii Kensuke reporter) It is a very tough result for the ruling party. Prime Minister Ishiba had set the 50 seats necessary to maintain a majority as a"must-achieve goal," but he did not reach that number. Prime Minister Ishiba intends to continue in office, but he has lost a majority in both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors, and it is expected that his administration will become even more difficult to manage.
In response, the Democratic Party for the People and the House of Councillors Party significantly increased their seats, but it seems that they expanded their support, mainly among the relatively young generation, and also attracted some of the LDP's traditional supporters. The Japan Conservative Party and the political group"Team Mirai" also won seats in the proportional representation system for the first time, and it seems that one of the characteristics of this election is that voters' support trends are dispersed.
Q. How will the ruling and opposition parties approach this election? A. (Political Department, Nishii Kensuke reporter)
First of all, the ruling party will need the cooperation of the opposition parties to pass budget proposals and bills. Prime Minister Ishiba intends to seek ways to reach consensus with the opposition parties on each policy, and intends to move politics forward based on his experience in passing this year's budget in the regular Diet session. Meanwhile, as for the opposition parties, Constitutional Democratic Party leader Noda has stated that"the public opinion has clearly expressed its intention of saying 'no' to the Ishiba administration," and is preparing to strengthen his confrontational stance. However, even in a situation where the ruling party is in the minority in the House of Representatives, it cannot be said that the opposition parties have necessarily been united in their opposition to the ruling party, so it is unclear whether the results of this election will lead the opposition parties to unite and demand a change of government. It seems likely that both the ruling and opposition parties will work out their future strategies while exploring each other's reactions.
The LDP and Komeito lost significantly from their pre-election 66 seats, falling short of their target of 50 seats needed to maintain a majority, and became a minority in the House of Councillors after losing it to the House of Representatives. This is the first time since the LDP's founding in 1955 that a government led by the LDP has fallen below a majority in both houses of the Diet.
[32 single-seat districts nationwide] LDP seats halved to 14
The winners have been decided in all 32 single-seat districts nationwide.
The LDP only managed to get 14 seats, half the number it had in the last election three years ago (28), and the lowest number since the number of single-seat districts was increased to 32 in the 2016 election.
Meanwhile, on the opposition side, the Constitutional Democratic Party won eight seats, six more than in the last election.
The Democratic Party for the People won three seats, two more than in the last election. In addition, independents won seven seats.
【For more information, click here】Attention: The situation in single-seat districts
The battle for the 32"single-seat districts" nationwide
Social Democratic Party certain to secure one seat up for election
The Social Democratic Party is certain to secure one of the seats up for re-election.
Conservatives win two seats, fulfilling all requirements to become a political party
The Japanese Conservative Party has won two seats so far. This brings the number of members of the Diet, including the House of Representatives, to five, fulfilling all the requirements for a political party under the Public Offices Election Act.
Reiwa's third seat is certain to surpass the two seats up for election
Reiwa Shinsengumi has already won three seats, ensuring that it will win more than the two seats up for re-election.
Citizens: 21 seats will be secured with the introduction of bills that will include budgets and non-reelections
The Democratic Party for the People achieved its target of 16 seats, and together with the seats not up for election, it is now certain to secure 21 seats, which will enable it to submit bills involving budgets.
Councillors: With the non-reelection seats, 11 seats that submitted independent bills are sure to be secured
The Democratic Party has so far won 10 seats, and together with the seats not up for election, it is now certain to have 11 seats, enough to submit bills on its own.
Komeito not expected to win all constituencies for first time since 2007
The Komeito Party's incumbent Yasue is certain to lose in the Aichi constituency. This is the first time the Komeito Party has lost in an electoral district since 2007, 18 years ago.
42 women elected, the highest number ever
A total of 42 women were elected in this House of Councillors election, the highest number ever, surpassing the previous election and the election three years ago, which were the highest numbers ever.
A total of 152 women candidates ran in this election, accounting for 29.1% of the total, the second highest number ever after the previous election.
As a result of the vote count, a total of 42 women were elected, surpassing the previous election and the election three years ago, which were the highest numbers ever.
By political party, ▼12 women were elected from the Constitutional Democratic Party, ▼7 women from the Liberal Democratic Party, ▼7 women from the Party for the People, ▼5 women from the Democratic Party for the People, ▼3 women from the Japan Restoration Party, ▼2 women from the Communist Party, ▼2 women from the Reiwa Shinsengumi, and ▼4 independents.
LDP: 10 elected, 4 defeated for failing to report political funds
In this House of Councillors election, 14 candidates ran for office after failing to report on their political funds due to a problem involving a political fundraising party run by a faction of the Liberal Democratic Party.
Of these, 10 candidates were elected: Takahashi Harumi in the Hokkaido constituency, Mori Masako in the Fukushima constituency, Miyamoto Shuji in the Ishikawa constituency, Sakai Tsuneyuki in the Aichi constituency, Nishida Masashi in the Kyoto constituency, Kata Hiroyuki in the Hyogo constituency, Horii Iwao in the Nara constituency, Kitamura Tsuneo in the Yamaguchi constituency, Ishida Masahiro in the proportional representation constituency, and Hashimoto Seiko in the proportional representation constituency.
On the other hand, four candidates were defeated: Yoshikawa Yumi in the Mie constituency, Nagamine Makoto in the Miyazaki constituency, Akaike Nobuaki in the proportional representation constituency, and Sugita Mio in the proportional representation constituency.
Social Democratic Party maintains party status
The Social Democratic Party received more than 2% of the votes in the proportional representation system, and thus maintained its status as a political party under the Public Offices Election Act.
To be recognized as a political party under the Public Offices Election Act, a party must ▼have five or more Diet members or ▼have received more than 2% of the votes in the most recent House of Representatives or House of Councillors election.
The Social Democratic Party received only 1.71% of the votes in last year's House of Representatives election, and if it did not reach 2% in this election, it would have been at risk of losing its status as a political party.
The oldest winner is Muneo Suzuki (77) and the youngest is Yoshihiro Okumura (31).
The oldest of the winners is former LDP lawmaker Muneo Suzuki, 77 years old. He was a former director-general of the Hokkaido and Okinawa Development Agency, and was elected for the second time through proportional representation.
Meanwhile, the youngest is newcomer to the Democratic Party for the People, Yoshihiro Okumura, 31 years old. A former telecommunications company employee, he ran in the Tokyo electoral district and was elected for the first time.
LDP's Akiko Santo loses election
In the proportional representation race, LDP incumbent Santo Akiko lost. Santo is 83 years old.
She has worked as an actress and TV personality, and has been elected a total of eight times since her first election to the House of Councillors in 1974. During this time, she served as Minister of the Science and Technology Agency, among other positions, and in 2015 she became the first woman to become the head of a faction in the LDP, leading the"Sando faction."
She was elected President of the House of Councillors in 2019, becoming the second female president of the House of Councillors after Ogi Chikage. Santo tried to expand her support by highlighting her achievements, but she was unable to gain traction and lost the election.
LDP's Masahisa Sato loses election
In the proportional representation race, LDP incumbent Sato Masahisa lost. Sato is 64 years old.
He served as the commander of the Ground Self-Defense Force's advance party during the Self-Defense Forces' deployment to Iraq in 2004, and was nicknamed"Captain Beard." He was first elected in the 2007 House of Councillors election through proportional representation, and has served as Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs and Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Defense. He is currently the Deputy Secretary-General of the LDP.
Sato appealed for support from former Self-Defense Force members and tried to use his high profile to expand his support nationwide, but it was not enough and he lost the election.
Voter turnout (constituency): 58.51%, 6.46 points higher than last time
According to a summary by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the voter turnout rate in electoral districts for this House of Councillors election was 58.51%, 6.46 points higher than the previous election three years ago.
Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chairman Kobayashi:"We must build a new political system"
Regarding the results of the House of Councillors election, Chairman Kobayashi of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry commented,"The people chose the ruling party, and against the backdrop of dissatisfaction with high prices and the rise of new powers, the ruling party lost a large number of seats, resulting in a harsh result of falling below the majority. The LDP and Komeito should take this public will seriously. Political fluidity is inevitable in the future, but without political stability, sustainable economic growth cannot be expected. I would like the ruling party to take the public will head on and build a new political system that can gain trust both at home and abroad."
He then pointed out,"For Japan to achieve a virtuous cycle of growth and distribution and build a sustainable social economy even with a declining population, it is essential to go beyond short-term price and demand responses and steadily implement medium- to long-term policies accompanied by structural reform, including strengthening the earning power of small and medium-sized enterprises."
Japan Business Federation Executive Director Shinnami: "This is a sign of growing anxiety due to tariffs and other factors"
Regarding the results of the House of Councillors election, Keizai Doyukai Executive Director Niinami commented,"The fact that the ruling coalition lost a majority is an indication that effective economic policies were not presented quickly to address current issues such as the US tariff measures, and public anxiety about the administration's management has grown."
Regarding the future administration of the administration, he pointed out,"Japan has a mountain of important policy issues to deal with, and delays in national politics are not permitted. While some countries have reached a settlement on the US tariff measures, I would like Japan to quickly conclude negotiations as well. We need to quickly review our negotiating policy, including coordinating opinions between the ruling and opposition parties, and engage in negotiations with the US without wasting the remaining time."
Keidanren Chairman Tsutsui: "This is a sign of harsh public opinion against the ruling party"
Following the results of the House of Councillors election, Keidanren Chairman Tsutsui commented,"We take the fact that the number of seats held by the LDP and Komeito in the House of Councillors fell below the majority as an indication of the harsh public opinion toward the ruling party."
He went on to say,"Currently, the most pressing issues are measures to combat rising prices and the realization of a virtuous cycle of growth and distribution. At the same time, there are a mountain of issues that need to be addressed from a medium- to long-term perspective, such as maintaining and strengthening a free and open international economic order in a turbulent international situation, and comprehensive reform of taxes, finances, and social security. Politics is required to promote these important policies with strong leadership, and we strongly hope that a stable political system will be established with the LDP and Komeito at the center."
U.S. State Department:"The U.S.-Japan alliance is strong"
A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department made a comment to NHK following the results of the House of Councillors election.
The spokesperson emphasized that"The U.S.-Japan alliance is the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and around the world, and it is stronger than ever."
The spokesperson added,"We look forward to continuing to cooperate with the government of Japan, our staunch democratic ally, on a wide range of topics, including regional stability, defense cooperation, economic relations, and the trilateral relationship between Japan, the U.S., and South Korea."
Chinese Foreign Ministry: "Building constructive and stable relations"
Regarding the results of the House of Councillors election, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a press conference on the 21st that he would not comment on Japan's domestic affairs, but added,"China is willing to work with Japan to advance dialogue and communication at all levels and in all fields, deepen political trust, and properly manage differences, so as to comprehensively promote our strategic mutually beneficial relationship and strive to build a constructive and stable Sino-Japanese relationship."
South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs: "Building a robust and mature relationship"
Following the results of the House of Councillors election, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying,"The South Korean government will continue to communicate closely with Japan in order to build a strong and mature South Korea-Japan relationship."
Overseas media: "Japan's political instability is on the rise"
Foreign media are reporting that the result of the House of Councillors elections, in which the Ishiba administration has become a minority party in the House of Councillors, following its defeat in the House of Representatives, will increase political instability in Japan.
[Western] The Associated Press reports that"This defeat is a further blow to the Ishiba administration, and will further increase political instability in Japan."
Regarding tariff negotiations with the United States, it states,"President Trump is further increasing pressure, dissatisfied with the slow progress of negotiations and the sluggish sales of cars and rice to Japan. The 25% tariff measures scheduled to be implemented on the 1st of next month are a further blow to Prime Minister Ishiba."
It goes on to say,"Prime Minister Ishiba resisted compromise in negotiations before the election, but it will be difficult for a minority party to reach an agreement with the opposition, so it is unclear whether a breakthrough will be made even after the election."
On the other hand, Reuters reported on the SDP's significant increase in seats under the headline"'Japanese First' party rises to power in election with strict immigration policy".
In the article, they introduced an expert's analysis that"Kamiya's message resonated with voters who were dissatisfied with the sluggish economy and the weak yen, which has attracted many tourists and caused high prices."
Furthermore, in an interview with Reuters before the election, Kamiya said,"I was inspired by President Trump's bold political style," and after the election, he said,"I intend to follow the example of emerging populist parties in Europe, which cooperate with other smaller parties rather than cooperate with the LDP government."
[China]
In China, the state-run Xinhua News Agency reported the failure of the LDP and Komeito to maintain a majority in the recent House of Councillors election, showing the high level of interest.
Xinhua News Agency reports that"The Ishiba administration failed to win a majority in last year's House of Representatives election and has become a minority party. The defeat in the latest House of Councillors election will make it even more difficult to govern."
In addition, state-run China Central Television analyzed the background to the election results, saying,"Prime Minister Ishiba has achieved almost no results on the issue of prices, which is of greatest concern to the people," citing growing public dissatisfaction with the ruling party, and also reporting that"Following the historic defeat, calls for Prime Minister Ishiba's resignation are growing within the LDP."
While China is expected to continue to face conflict with the Trump administration in the United States, which has been in power for half a year, it is likely to be closely watching the political developments in Japan following the election results, as the Ishiba administration has sent positive signals toward improving relations since its inauguration.
[Korea] Korean media has been reporting extensively that the LDP and Komeito failed to maintain a majority in the House of Councillors election, and that the future of Japanese politics is becoming more uncertain.
Among these, Yonhap News Agency reported,"The ruling party's crushing defeat has made the political situation in Japan even more unclear, and it is likely that the situation will remain unclear for some time. Any scenario is possible, such as Prime Minister Ishiba's resignation, an expansion of the coalition government framework, or a change of government. There are too many variables, and it is not easy to predict."
In addition, the major newspaper Chosun Ilbo reported,"The 'era of the LDP's dominance', which saw consecutive victories in every election since 2012, has come to an end. Prime Minister Ishiba has indicated his intention to continue in his position as prime minister without resigning, but depending on future developments, we cannot rule out the possibility that he will be forced to resign regardless of his own wishes."
After 22:00
Prime Minister Ishiba intends to continue in office, saying"I have responsibilities that I must fulfill"
A little after 10 p.m., on NHK's election report program, Prime Minister Ishiba commented that it would be difficult for the LDP and Komeito to secure the 50 seats necessary to maintain a majority in the House of Councillors election, saying,"The situation is severe, and we must accept it humbly and sincerely." When asked about his own future plans, he said,"As things stand, we have been given the number one seat in the Diet. Another thing is that we have a responsibility to fulfill for the nation, including the policies we called for throughout the country during the election period, such as wage increases that exceed rising prices, responses to the severe security environment, disaster prevention measures, regional revitalization, and measures to combat population decline. We must be well aware of the responsibilities of being the number one party in the Diet."
In response to a question about whether he would ask some of the opposition parties to join the coalition if the ruling party falls below a majority in the House of Councillors, he said,"I cannot say anything rashly because the number of seats each party will have is not yet known, but we have listened to various opinions during last year's extraordinary Diet session and this year's regular Diet session and have revised what needs to be revised. This will be the same going forward. We need to think carefully about what is best to realize the policy." He continued,"I have been saying that the best way to deal with rising prices is to increase wages beyond the price rise, but since the price rise is still greater than the wage rise, it was difficult to get people to understand that we need to take measures to provide quick and generous support to families in great difficulty." He added,"It was difficult to get people to understand that the consumption tax is a valuable source of funds to support social security, and that we must keep long-term interest rates from rising as much as possible while the national finances are very tight."
Afterwards, Prime Minister Ishiba reiterated on TV Asahi's election results program that he must be aware of the weight of being the number one party. When asked if he could take this as an indication of his intention to continue in office, he said,"That's fine," indicating his intention to continue in office.
Around 01:00
CDP leader Noda:"A grand coalition with the LDP is out of the question"
At a press conference at around 1 a.m., Noda, leader of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, said,"We need to analyze carefully why we were unable to make any major progress. On the other hand, the people have expressed their opposition to the Ishiba administration, so we would like to work together with the opposition parties to quickly achieve this goal, such as by abolishing the provisional gasoline tax rate."
Noda then said,"We have different views on the consumption tax and the issue of politics and money has not been resolved. A 'grand coalition' is out of the question." Regarding how to handle the motion of no confidence in the cabinet, he said,"If Prime Minister Ishiba intends to continue in his position, I think he will naturally mention the tariff negotiations with U.S. President Trump at today's press conference. If the situation worsens the national crisis, we may have no choice but to confront the administration with even stronger resolve."
Before 04:00
Komeito leader Saito: "As the head of the party, I feel a sense of responsibility"
At a press conference at party headquarters just before 4 a.m., Komeito leader Saito said of the certainty that the LDP and Komeito would fall short of the 50 seats needed to maintain a majority,"It is truly disappointing. The LDP and Komeito must decide what needs to be decided in the Diet and move national politics forward, and we will do our best to achieve that."
Furthermore, regarding Komeito's loss of seats, he said,"As the leader of the party, I feel responsible. I am giving careful consideration to how I will take responsibility." Meanwhile, in response to Prime Minister Ishiba's intention to continue in his position as prime minister, he said,"I think we will be close to a majority, so if that is Prime Minister Ishiba's decision, I would like to accept it."
Around 00:30
Councillor Kamiya, Representative:"I'm happy to be able to submit the bill"
At a press conference around 12:30 a.m., Kamiya, the leader of the Party for the Disaster Relief Party, said,"If we can reach 10 seats, I'm happy that we can submit a bill and meet everyone's expectations."
Then, when asked by reporters how he would seek understanding from those who oppose the Party for the Disaster Relief Party's policies, he said,"I want people to understand that the Party for the Disaster Relief Party does not support expelling foreigners or discriminating against them. If any party members say such things, we will warn them, and if they do not listen to the warning, we will expel them. We do not approve of such extreme speech within the party."
Meanwhile, in regards to Prime Minister Ishiba's intention to continue in his position, Kamiya said,"I think there is no replacement. If there was someone capable, he would be replaced, but I think that this is because the LDP does not have enough talented people."
Around 00:30
LDP Election Campaign Chairman Kihara: "I think the Prime Minister himself will explain."
At around 12:30 a.m. on the 21st, on Fuji TV's election coverage program, LDP Election Strategy Chairman Kihara was asked whether he thought Prime Minister Ishiba's intention to continue in his position would be accepted by those within the party. He responded,"There is no doubt that we are the number one party, and we have a responsibility to have appealed to the people, so I think it is something that Prime Minister Ishiba himself will explain."
LDP Secretary-General Suzuki: "We will do our best as a responsible political party"
After attending a meeting of the Aso faction with top adviser Aso and others, LDP General Affairs Chairman Suzuki told reporters that he could not comment on Prime Minister Ishiba's intention to continue in his position until he had heard his press conference as president, and said,"The LDP won the most seats in the House of Councillors election, so we must take a responsible stance as a responsible political party." Regarding the future of how the government will be run, he said,"Politics is a living thing. There are so many variables that no one can predict what will happen from now on."
After 23:30
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama: "I intend to continue in my position if Prime Minister Ishiba gives me instructions"
At around 11:30pm on the 20th, LDP Secretary-General Moriyama was asked by reporters at the LDP headquarters if he would continue in his role as Secretary-General. He said,"My future should be discussed with Prime Minister Ishiba, and I would like to do so. If he instructs me to continue as Secretary-General, then it is only natural for me as a party member," indicating that he would continue in his role if instructed by Prime Minister Ishiba. He then added,"Considering the international situation, the US tariff measures, and the economic situation in response, I can say without a doubt that now is the time to create a political vacuum."
After 00:00
"A new option has been chosen" says Kokumin Party leader Tamaki
At a press conference in Tokyo just after midnight, Tamaki, the head of the Democratic Party for the People, said,"Just because the LDP is no good doesn't mean that the Constitutional Democratic Party is growing in popularity, but rather that the Democratic Party for the People and the Democratic Party for the People are on the rise, and a new option has been chosen. The people have placed their hopes in us, who frankly said, 'If we implement these policies, we can restore a strong economy.'"
Everyone: Party Leader Otsu: "We will take the results seriously"
Minna de Tsukuru Tou Party leader Otsu commented,"We take the results seriously and will continue to work to eradicate bullying and slander and to create a society where everyone can live in peace. The voices and thoughts we received through this election will be a major driving force behind our future policy proposals and social change."
Around 23:30
Komeito Chairman Saito: "We want to base our thinking on a coalition government between the LDP and Komeito"
At around 11:30 pm on Nippon Television's election results report program, Komeito leader Saito said,"We have worked hard together to realize our policies, having signed an electoral cooperation agreement with the LDP on the premise of a coalition. We are not considering separating the LDP and Komeito in this election, and would like to base our thinking on a coalition government between the LDP and Komeito." He added,"As the leader of the party, I feel a great sense of responsibility for the loss of seats. I would like to carefully consider how to take responsibility."
Communist Party Chairman Tamura: "We will continue to take the position of ending LDP politics"
On the 20th, at around 11:30 pm, on NHK's election report program, Chairman Tamura of the Communist Party said,"Following the House of Representatives, we have been fighting with the goal of losing the ruling party's majority in the House of Councillors. The opposition parties, which have a clear confrontational stance against the LDP, should join forces and respond to the judgment of the people. The LDP will likely try to incorporate the opposition parties, but we will continue to take the position of ending LDP politics."
After 23:00
Ishin Party leader Yoshimura: "Despite the harsh results, we will remain a reform party"
A little after 11pm, Yoshimura, leader of the Japan Restoration Party, said on NHK's election results program,"Kansai has managed to hang on by a thread, but the results are tough nationwide." He added,"I think it is very important for political parties to carry out their campaign promises, so I want to pursue each policy on its merits and demerits, and run a political party that fulfills its promises. I think reforms to lower social insurance premiums are really necessary, so I will continue to advocate for them. I want to continue to be a reform party that directly appeals for what is truly needed, and improve Japan through reform."
Around 23:30
Conservative leader Momota: "Results are unsatisfactory"
At around 11:30 pm, on NHK's election results program, Japanese Conservative Party leader Hyakuta said,"The results are disappointing. We have been calling for tax cuts and the correction of incorrect renewable energy policies, but it seems that some of our calls have been answered and some have not." He added,"In any case, we are simply doing our best to enrich Japan, so we would like to lobby other lawmakers in the Diet to get our calls heard."
After 23:00
Social Democratic Party leader Fukushima: "Judgment on the LDP for not doing politics for the people"
At a press conference in Tokyo just after 11 p.m., Fukushima, the leader of the Social Democratic Party, said,"The people have passed judgment on the LDP, which has not implemented policies for the people, such as reducing the consumption tax or banning corporate donations. As there is still no certainty that the Social Democratic Party will win, we will continue to watch the situation."
Around 22:30
Kamiya, the party's representative, said,"We will take both the LDP-Komeito government and the CDP government on their merits and demerits."
At around 10:30 pm, Kamiya, the leader of the Party for the People, said on NHK's election report program,"We are very happy that we are likely to win about three times as many seats as we expected before the election."
Regarding future relations with other parties, he said,"We will support policies that we can agree with. Deciding for or against each policy will be our approach to the LDP-Komeito government and the ruling party. We will take a case-by-case approach with the Constitutional Democratic Party. We cannot support optional separate surnames for married couples, but we would like to cooperate if the Constitutional Democratic Party proposes policies such as tax cuts." He added,"If we can win about 50 or 60 seats in the next House of Representatives election, I think that in the future, we may be able to realize something like a coalition cabinet of minority parties like those in Europe, and we would like to aim to be in a position to occupy a part of that. The LDP's wings are so wide from right to left that it is no longer clear what the people want. I think that the LDP may split in the future, and I would like to create a new framework that is not related to the ruling or opposition parties."
People's Party leader Tamaki: "We have no intention of cooperating with the Ishiba administration, which does not keep its promises"
At around 10:30 pm, on NHK's election results program, Tamaki, the leader of the Democratic Party for the People, said,"I think that the number of seats won by the party is the result of expectations for the policy of increasing take-home pay." Regarding the relationship with the Ishiba administration, he said,"I would like to make a decision on each policy, but I think that the promises we placed the most importance on, raising the '1.03 million yen wall' to 1.78 million yen and abolishing the provisional gasoline tax rate, have not been kept." He added,"Will the Ishiba administration continue? I don't know what will happen with the LDP's internal political situation and the ruling party's political situation, and I would like to carefully determine whether I will be allowed to continue in office. I have no intention of cooperating with the Ishiba administration, which does not keep its promises."
Around 22:30
Conservative leader Momota: "Let's make Japan richer and stronger, one seat at a time, even if it takes time"
At around 10:30 pm, on the internet broadcasting program ABEMA's election results report program, the head of the Japanese Conservative Party, Momota, said,"We are a very small opposition party and we do not have the power to move the country, but we will work one seat at a time, one seat at a time, even if it takes time, to make Japan richer and stronger. Based on our statements in the Diet, I would like the ruling party and other opposition parties to imitate them."
After 22:00
CDP leader Noda: "Public opinion is a clear 'no' to the Ishiba administration"
Constitutional Democratic Party leader Noda said on NHK's election results report program just after 10 p.m.,"There are many close races, so we will be watching with a sense of tension." He added,"In this election, the public's will clearly expressed its intention to say 'no' to the Ishiba administration. If he continues in office, I want him to give a clear explanation as to why."
Regarding how to handle the future motion of no confidence in the cabinet, he said,"If Prime Minister Ishiba continues in office, I would like to make a decision after seeing what kind of press conference he holds tomorrow."
Meanwhile, regarding how to deal with the ruling party in the future, he said,"I would like to have a thorough discussion about what the opposition parties can do together. When the extraordinary Diet session is held, it will be an important process to build up what we can do and find a government vision with the opposition parties through sincere dialogue."
After 22:00
Communist Party Chairman Tamura: "It is very important that the LDP and Komeito lose a majority in both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors"
A little after 10 p.m., on a TBS Radio election report program, Communist Party Chairman Tamura said,"It is very important that the LDP and Komeito lose their majority, as they did in the House of Representatives. In particular, a harsh judgment is about to be passed on the LDP, which said it would 'protect the consumption tax.' We will do our utmost to create a movement toward a new politics to replace the LDP's politics."
Around 22:00
Komeito leader Saito: "Measures to combat high prices have not been fully implemented"
At around 10pm, Komeito leader Saito spoke on Nico Nico Live's election results report program about the reasons for the ruling party's loss of seats, saying,"The biggest theme was measures to combat rising prices, and we thought we explained that we would provide both tax cuts and benefits, but the main reason is that this didn't quite sink in." When asked about the pros and cons of forming a coalition government with the LDP and cooperating in elections, he said,"We share the same goal of building a local community together with the moderate conservatives of the LDP. If we say, 'Well, let's leave now,' because the election results were bad, we will lose the trust of the people."
After 9:30 p.m.
CDP Secretary-General Ogawa:"Our basic policy is to aim for a change of government through elections"
Constitutional Democratic Party Secretary-General Ogawa said on NHK's election count program at a little after 9:30 p.m.,"The LDP and the Constitutional Democratic Party are the two largest ruling and opposition parties that should face each other, and our basic line is that we will aim to change power through the election.Our responsibility as the overwhelmingly largest opposition party, including in terms of seats in the House of Representatives, remains unchanged, so we would like to make various appeals to other opposition parties with generosity and humility."
Around 21:30
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama: "I want to discuss with Prime Minister Ishiba how to fulfill our responsibilities"
At around 9:30 pm, LDP Secretary-General Moriyama said on NHK's election results program,"I visited the whole country and felt that it was a tough election, but the results were even tougher than that." When asked about the responsibility of the party executive, he said,"I feel a great sense of responsibility. However, I would like to discuss with Prime Minister Ishiba how to fulfill that responsibility." When asked if he was considering resigning as Secretary-General, he said,"I would like to discuss it with Prime Minister Ishiba."
After 9pm
Kamiya, the party's representative, said,"Older women cannot give birth" and "raised the issue"
On TV Asahi's election results report program at just after 9 p.m., Kamiya, the leader of the Democratic Party for the Democratic Party of Japan, commented on his comments during a street speech during the election period, such as"Older women cannot have children," saying,"I have no intention of correcting or apologizing, and I simply raised the issue of something that is obvious. I would like to continue to appeal on the same topic in the Diet." He added,"Biologically, women cannot have children when they get older. I was simply explaining that, so it bothers me when people say that I am hurt."
Around 21:00
Kamiya, the party's representative, said,"We are not considering a coalition with the LDP and Komeito after the Upper House elections are over."
On an online election report program just before 9 p.m., Kamiya, the leader of the Upper House Party, said,"If there is something important for the national interest that must pass at all costs, we would consider cooperating with the LDP and others on a topic or bill-by-bill basis, but we have absolutely no intention of currying favor and trying to get some kind of position."
Also, when asked about forming a coalition with the LDP and Komeito on a Nippon Television election report program, he said,"At this stage, after the Upper House election, we are not thinking about it. Since we are still a small party and have not yet formed an organization, if we suddenly get involved with the ruling party, we will end up being torn apart. In the future, I think that a number of small parties, like those in Europe, will form a coalition and form a coalition government of about four or five parties."
Before 21:00
Komeito Secretary-General Nishida: "Appeals to combat rising prices are not getting through"
Komeito Secretary-General Nishida said on Nippon Broadcasting System's election count program just before 9 p.m.,"This is the voters' judgment, so we want to take it very seriously. At a time when wages have not kept up with rising prices, we have implemented measures to combat rising prices, but I feel that our message that 'this is what we will do from now on' has not fully penetrated."
After 9pm
Ishin Party leader Yoshimura: "We are not considering a coalition with the LDP"
At a press conference in Osaka City just after 9 p.m., Yoshimura, the leader of the Japan Restoration Party, said,"We started from a very difficult situation. In the Kansai region, I think we managed to hold on by the very end. The vote count is still ongoing, so we want to wait until the end so that as many candidates as possible can win." He added,"The situation is still difficult nationwide, and while there are new political parties, we want to go back to our roots and keep in mind that we are a reform party and continue to forge ahead." When asked about his thoughts on Prime Minister Ishiba's future, he said,"It is up to the Prime Minister to decide."
Regarding the framework of the government, he said,"At this point, we are not considering forming a coalition with the LDP. I think there are discussions with the opposition parties on each policy, but it is a bit difficult. It is not realistic to run the backbone of the country with parties such as the Communist Party, which have completely different constitutional values."
Before 20:30
Mirai Yasuno, leader of the opposition party:"Winning is not the goal, it's the start"
At a press conference in Tokyo just before 8:30 p.m., Yasuno, leader of the political group"Team Mirai," said,"First of all, I am extremely happy that there are so many people who support what we have been calling for. Winning is not the goal, it is the start. Division has become a major issue in our democracy, so we want to embody the idea of having a fair, straightforward, constructive discussion without inciting division or denigrating our opponents."
After 20:00
Reiwa Party leader Yamamoto: "The issues at stake in this election were strange"
Reiwa Shinsengumi leader Yamamoto said on the party's YouTube channel just after 8 p.m.,"This time, the media was particularly bad at deflecting the election's issues. At a time when we should have been asking what this election was about, they were shunned by the theme of 'foreigners,' which was a completely wrong issue." He continued,"We've had a 30-year recession, and then COVID came along, and before we could recover, prices went up, and small and medium-sized businesses are going bust. In this situation, what should be questioned most now is the lives of the people and the economy of this country. Despite the fact that we're in an urgent situation, they've shifted the topic to the issue of foreigners, and I'm like, 'What is that?'" He continued,"Of course, we recognize that there are problems surrounding 'foreigners,' but we have no intention of putting the brakes on discussions in the Diet to change this. However, right now, it's the economy. This election was one in which various themes were hidden to cover up the economy."
After 20:00
N Party leader Tachibana: "We expect a 2% vote share, politicians will continue"
At a press conference in Kobe City just after 8 p.m., Tachibana, the leader of the political group"NHK Party," said,"I have heard that the situation is such that the party will not be able to win any seats. However, our main goal is to return to national politics, and we are hopeful that we will achieve the required '2% of the votes.' Even if I cannot return to national politics, I will continue as a politician, focusing on Hyogo Prefecture."
After 20:30
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama: "As the comparatively number one party, we will fulfill our responsibilities in both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors"
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama said on a Nippon Broadcasting System program just after 8:30 pm,"I was aware that it would be a tough election, but I feel that the results will be even tougher than I expected." When asked about how he would take responsibility, he said,"I would like to discuss with Prime Minister Ishiba how I should act as Secretary-General of the party that is in power. I believe that there is no doubt that we are the comparatively largest party in the House of Councillors, and as the comparatively largest party, it all comes down to fulfilling my responsibilities in both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors."
LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Onodera: "We take our responsibility seriously"
Speaking on BS Asahi's election count program just after 8 p.m., LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Onodera said,"We heard some very harsh criticism during the election campaign.As one of the policy chiefs, I take heavy responsibility for not being able to fully explain the LDP's thinking."
"This election campaign will allow us to feel the dissatisfaction and anger of the people first-hand"
At 8:30 pm on Nippon Cultural Broadcasting's election results program, Communist Party Secretary-General Koike said,"This election campaign made us feel the public's dissatisfaction and anger toward the current administration. Our efforts to unify in single-seat districts have been quite effective." Koike also said,"It is a serious crisis that a political party has emerged that loudly appeals for ethnic discrimination and xenophobia. Our task going forward will be to appeal for a politics of solidarity that respects diversity."
Deputy Representative of the Democratic Party of Japan, Tsujimoto:"We will closely monitor Prime Minister Ishiba's decision"
On Tokyo FM's election results report program, Deputy Representative Tsujimoto of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan said,"I think the criticism of the LDP was very strong. We particularly focused on single-seat districts, and Representative Noda went in vigorously to support them. I think we were able to break through areas that had been completely conservative bases until now."
Also on NHK's election results report program, he said,"I think the criticism of the LDP and Komeito administration spread across the country and it was like a tectonic shift. We appealed for measures to deal with high prices and agricultural policies, but the LDP had no policy, and I got the impression that it was difficult to understand what they were saying." He added,"It is still unclear how the political situation will develop in the future. The Ishiba administration was judged very harshly, but I would like to keep a close eye on how Prime Minister Ishiba is judged."
Kokumin Party Secretary-General Shinba: "I don't think there will be a coalition with the ruling party"
On a commercial TV broadcasting program reporting the election results, Secretary General Shinba of the Democratic Party for the People said,"I don't think there will be a coalition with the ruling party. In the first place, following the results of the public's will in last year's House of Representatives election, the secretaries-general of the three parties, the Liberal Democratic Party, Komeito, and the Democratic Party for the People, promised to raise the income barrier and abolish the provisional gasoline tax rate, and approved the budget proposal, but the ladder was pulled out from under them. I think the people are more disappointed than we are." He went on to say,"The House of Councillors election is over, and the landscape of the Diet will change with a new framework, so I want to compete with dignity."
After 20:00
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama: "I regret that we did not provide sufficient explanation for measures to combat rising prices"
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama said on TV Tokyo's election results report program just after 8 p.m.,"One reason may be that we were unable to fully explain the relationship between social security and the consumption tax to the extent that the public could fully understand. I also regret that we were not able to provide sufficient explanation on measures to combat rising prices." Meanwhile, when asked about his thoughts on his responsibility as Secretary-General, he said,"Since the vote count is still ongoing, I would like to refrain from commenting on the nature of responsibility at this time."
Around 20:00
Representative Kamiya of the House of Councillors: "We have a good feeling that we will receive many seats"
At around 8 p.m., when entering the press conference room at the vote counting center in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, Kamiya, the leader of the Party for the People, said,"During the 17 days of the election, I felt that the wind was blowing in our favor, but there were also many attacks. Looking at the exit polls from each company, it may be difficult to achieve our target of 20 seats, but we are now facing this moment with a sense of confidence that we will receive many more seats than the six seats we had initially planned for."
Ishin Party official: "Disappointment in the government has spread"
A senior member of the Japan Restoration Party told NHK,"The public's expectations that the Ishiba administration would bring about reforms have been betrayed, and disappointment has spread as they have realized that nothing will change no matter who is at the top. With the ruling party losing a majority in the House of Councillors, the chances of realizing our policies have increased, so we would like to work even harder to fulfill the promises we made to the public."
"The party's message resonated with me"
A Diet member from the Party for the Democratic Party of Japan told NHK,"Maybe it's because the LDP-Komeito government hasn't implemented proper policies. With the people's lives in poverty, the Party for the Democratic Party's call to lower the national tax burden resonated with many people, and I think many people felt a sense of crisis about the issue of foreigners." He added,"We will accept the election results as they are, and from now on we will exert our power in the Diet and continue our activities so that our party's policy claims can be widely understood."
"The will of the voters was clearly expressed"
A senior member of the Democratic Party for the People told NHK,"Following on from last year's House of Representatives election where the ruling party lost its majority, the will of the voters was clearly expressed in this House of Councillors election. It means that the LDP-Komeito government has done nothing to address the rising prices. We have continued to advocate economic policies to 'increase take-home pay,' and we felt a positive response in this House of Councillors election. Going forward, we would like to continue working to raise the '1.03 million yen barrier' to 1.78 million yen and to abolish the provisional gasoline tax rate."
CDP executive: "Ruling party unable to regain trust"
A senior member of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan told NHK,"The ruling party lost the trust of voters over issues of politics and money, and has been unable to regain that trust by failing to present effective measures to combat rising prices, such as postponing the abolition of the temporary gasoline tax rate. Attention will be focused on whether the ruling party will lose its majority in the House of Councillors as a whole. The Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan would like to do all it can to realize the measures to combat rising prices that we put forward during the election."
After 20:00
LDP Election Campaign Chairman Kihara: "We will examine the results to see if it reached the voters"
Speaking on Tokyo FM's election count program just after 8 p.m., LDP election campaign chief Kihara said,"There were strong calls for tax cuts, but we sincerely conveyed our thoughts. We argued that cash payments are quicker and can be prioritized, but we would like to verify whether this message reached voters sufficiently once we have the election results."
Komeito official: "Harsh results, critical view of ruling party"
A Komeito official told NHK,"These are tough results. Our appeals, such as measures to combat high prices, were not easily understood and did not reach voters. I think the critical view of the ruling party has led to support for the opposition parties."
LDP official: "The LDP's policies were not communicated at all"
A senior LDP official told NHK,"The LDP's policies were not communicated at all. We were unable to address concerns about rising prices and stagnant wages, and the image of 'tax increases' has taken hold."
Former LDP cabinet minister: "If the ruling party does not win a majority, Prime Minister Ishiba should take responsibility"
A former LDP cabinet minister told NHK,"If the ruling party fails to secure a majority, Prime Minister Ishiba should take responsibility.It will mean losing the House of Representatives election, the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election, and the House of Councillors election, and that will be three outs."
Before 20:00
Conservative leader Hyakuta enters the vote counting center
Japanese Conservative Party leader Momota entered the vote counting center in Tokyo's Chuo Ward just before 8 p.m.
Around 19:30
Komeito leader Saito enters party headquarters
Komeito leader Saito entered the party headquarters around 7:30 p.m.
Around 19:20
Representative Kamiya of the Assembly enters the vote counting center
Kamiya, leader of the Democratic Party of Japan, entered the vote counting center in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, at around 7:20 p.m.
After 19:00
LDP Secretary General Moriyama enters party headquarters
LDP Secretary-General Moriyama entered the party headquarters just after 7 p.m. Vice President Suga, General Affairs Chairman Suzuki, and Election Strategy Committee Chairman Kihara were also gathered at the party headquarters. One of the executives told reporters as he entered the party headquarters,"The situation is severe."
【Exit Poll Results】All constituencies on the day
Click here for the results of the exit polls on the day of the election
The predicted number of seats
On the 20th, the day of the election, NHK, together with the Yomiuri Shimbun, Nippon Television Network, and NNN, conducted an exit poll of over 220,000 voters who had already cast their ballots at approximately 1,700 polling stations nationwide, receiving responses from approximately 140,000 people, or 62% of the total.
As a result of the exit poll and analysis of the situation, the expected number of seats that the LDP and Komeito will win combined has dropped from 32 to 51, a significant drop from the 66 seats they held before the election, making it difficult for them to secure the 50 seats necessary to maintain a majority in the House of Councillors, which was their goal.
If the LDP falls short of a majority in the House of Councillors in addition to the House of Representatives, it will be the first time since the party was founded in 1955 that a government led by the LDP has won a majority in the House of Councillors. There is also a possibility that the number of seats won by the LDP and Komeito will fall below the 46 seats that were the lowest since the coalition government was formed in 1999. [Liberal Democratic Party]
The number of seats expected to be won is expected to be 27 to 41, which is a definite decrease from the 52 seats before the election, and it may even fall below the 36 seats, the lowest number ever.
[Constitutional Democratic Party] 18 to 30 seats, which is on track to exceed the 22 seats before the election.
[Japan Restoration Party]
The number of seats expected to be won is expected to be 6 to 9.
[Komeito Party] 5 to 12 seats, which is on track to decrease from the 14 seats before the election.
[Democratic Party for the People]
The number of seats expected to be won is expected to be 14 to 21, a significant increase from the 4 seats before the election, and it is on track to achieve the target of 16 seats.
[Communist Party] 3 to 5 seats, which is on track to fall below the 7 seats before the election.
[Reiwa Shinsengumi]
Expected to win 2 to 4 seats.
[Sakigaketo] Expected to win 10 to 22 seats, a significant increase from the 1 seat it had before the election.
[Japan Conservative Party]
Expected to win 1 to 3 seats.
[Social Democratic Party] Possible to win 1 seat.
[Minna de Tsukuru Party]
Difficult to win a seat.
[Political group"NHK Party"] Possible to win 1 seat.
[Political group"Regeneration Path"]
Difficult to win a seat.
[Political group"Team Mirai"] Possible to win 1 to 2 seats. This will be the first time they have won a seat.
【Independents, etc.】
In addition to these, independents and other candidates are expected to win seven to eight seats.
◇Electoral district (75 seats)
In the 75-seat constituency, the LDP is expected to win 17 to 28 seats, the Constitutional Democratic Party is expected to win 12 to 22 seats, the Japan Restoration Party is expected to win 3 to 4 seats, the Komeito Party is expected to win 2 to 7 seats, the Democratic Party for the People is expected to win 8 to 13 seats, and the Communist Party is expected to win 1 to 2 seats. It is difficult for the Reiwa Shinsengumi to win any seats. The Party for the People is expected to win 4 to 13 seats. It is difficult for the Japan Conservative Party, the Social Democratic Party, the Minna de Tsukuru Party, the NHK Party, the Regeneration Path, and the Team Mirai Party to win any seats. Independents and other candidates are expected to win 7 to 8 seats.
◇ Proportional representation (50 seats)
In the proportional representation system with 50 seats, the LDP is expected to win 10 to 13 seats. The Constitutional Democratic Party is expected to win 6 to 8 seats. The Japan Restoration Party is expected to win 3 to 5 seats. The Komeito Party is expected to win 3 to 5 seats. The Democratic Party for the People is expected to win 6 to 8 seats. The Communist Party is expected to win 2 to 3 seats. The Reiwa Shinsengumi Party is expected to win 2 to 4 seats. The Sakigake Party is expected to win 6 to 9 seats. The Japan Conservative Party is expected to win 1 to 3 seats. The Social Democratic Party and the NHK Party are likely to win 1 seat. The Road to Regeneration are in a difficult position to win a seat. Team Mirai is likely to win 1 to 2 seats.
[Policy for determining winners]
"Sure to win" is a decision made by NHK at its own discretion, separate from the announcement by the Election Commission. On the 20th, the day of the election, NHK, in collaboration with the Yomiuri Shimbun, Nippon Television Network, and NNN, conducted an exit poll of 224,735 voters who had finished voting at approximately 1,700 polling stations nationwide, receiving responses from 139,952 people, or 62.3%.
We also conduct exit polls and situation coverage for early voting, and analyze this information comprehensively to determine who is"certain to win."
For this reason, even if there is no official announcement from the election management committee or the vote count is still low, if we can determine whether a candidate has a lead, we will announce that he or she is"certain to win" and broadcast the result. Also, even before the vote counting begins, if we determine that a candidate will win by a large margin based on our analysis, we will announce that the candidate is"certain to win."
◇Voting rate also attracts attention. Past trends in voting rate
The turnout rate for this election will be a major focus.
The voter turnout for House of Councillors elections has been below 60% for 11 consecutive elections since 1992, with the turnout rate being 52.05% in the last election three years ago and 48.80% in the election before that six years ago.
[Focus] Ruling party secures 50 seats to maintain majority; can opposition party stop it?
In this House of Councillors election, 125 out of 248 seats will be contested, including the 124 seats up for election and the seats to fill in the Tokyo electoral district. As a result, the majority of the seats up for contest this time will be 63. In addition, since the LDP and Komeito have 75 seats not up for election, the ruling coalition will maintain their overall majority if they secure 50 seats.
In this election, with the ruling party now in a minority in the House of Representatives, the biggest focus will be whether the ruling party can maintain its majority, including the seats not up for election, and whether the opposition can prevent this.
<Pre-election forces including those not up for election>
[Ruling party side]
▽ The Liberal Democratic Party: 114
▽ Komeito: 27
[Opposition side] ▽ Constitutional Democratic Party: 38
▽ Japan Restoration Party: 17 ▽ Democratic Party for the People: 9
▽ The Communist Party: 11 ▽ Reiwa Shinsengumi: 5
▽ 2 Democratic Parties ▽ 2 Social Democratic Parties
▽ NHK Party: 2 ▽ Independents: 12
Of these, the ruling party is facing re-election this time.
▽ The Liberal Democratic Party: 52 ▽ The Komeito Party: 14
[Opposition side]
▽ The Constitutional Democratic Party: 22 ▽ The Japan Restoration Party: 5
▽ The Democratic Party for the People: 4 ▽ The Communist Party: 7
▽ Reiwa Shinsengumi: 2 ▽ The Party for the Democratic Party: 1
▽ Social Democratic Party: 1 ▽ NHK Party: 1
▽ 7 independents
The 32 single-seat districts across the country are key to the outcome of the ruling and opposition parties
In the House of Councillors election, it is said that the 32 single-seat districts nationwide, each with one seat each, hold the key to the victory or defeat of the ruling and opposition parties. In previous House of Councillors elections, there have been cases where the opposition party has tried to adjust its candidates in order to create a one-to-one matchup with the ruling party.
In the House of Councillors election six years ago, the four parties at the time - the Constitutional Democratic Party, the Democratic Party for the People, the Communist Party, and the Social Democratic Party - unified their candidates in all 32 single-seat districts, creating a one-to-one ratio between the ruling and opposition parties.
By contrast, three years ago, opposition parties were only able to field a single candidate in 11 constituencies.
Looking at the parties that meet all the requirements for political parties under the Public Offices Election Act, there is no constituency in which the opposition parties have been able to unify their candidates. Even if we narrow our focus to the five parties - the Constitutional Democratic Party, the Japan Restoration Party, the Democratic Party for the People, the Communist Party, and the Reiwa Shinsengumi - and exclude the Diet Parties, which field candidates in all constituencies, there are candidates officially endorsed or recommended by the opposition parties competing in 16 constituencies, which is half of the single-seat constituencies.
The much-anticipated single-seat district showdown: what are the results so far?
More than 25% of voters cast early votes, the highest number ever
Voting for the House of Councillors election began at 7 a.m. on the 20th at approximately 44,700 polling stations nationwide, except in some areas such as remote islands where early voting had taken place by the 19th, and closed at 8 p.m.
Meanwhile, in this House of Councillors election, the number of people who voted early was approximately 26.18 million, or 25.12% of all voters, which is 6.56 million more than in the previous election three years ago, or more than 33%, and the highest number ever for a national election, including a House of Representatives election.
In this election campaign, measures to combat rising prices, an urgent issue, were one of the main points of contention, with each party calling for the implementation of subsidies, a reduction or abolition of the consumption tax rate, and measures to combat soaring rice prices.
Also
▽ Social security and measures to combat the declining birthrate ▽ Foreign and security policies, including responses to US tariff measures
There was also fierce debate on issues such as policies regarding foreigners.