Kusatsu and Tochigi local elections see candidate shifts

Local elections are approaching in Shiga and Tochigi prefectures. In Kusatsu, Shiga Prefecture, four independent candidates are running for mayor in the upcoming election on October 18. The candidates include former city council member Shiori Tanaka, former prefectural assembly member Takanori Shirai (endorsed by the LDP), former prefectural assembly member Chiyo Komai, and monk Masaaki Tsuda.

In Tochigi Prefecture, political shifts are occurring ahead of the spring 2027 prefectural assembly elections. In the Utsunomiya-Kamimikawa district, incumbent Miyako Yamada announced her retirement from her sixth term. Miho Ogawa has announced her intention to run as her successor.