Sanseito Gains Ground in Japan’s July 20 Upper House Election on Young Voters’ Anti-Foreigner Platform

Japan's recent upper house election on July 20 saw a notable rise in support for the right-wing populist Sanseito party, particularly among younger voters. The party's platform, which includes warnings about foreigners, has helped it establish a strong foothold in the political landscape. This shift is contributing to concerns about Japan's political stability and its traditional status as a safe haven in global markets. The influence of social media, especially among the YouTube generation, has played a significant role in bringing anti-foreigner politics into the mainstream. The election results have prompted reactions from Japan's foreign community and have been widely covered in the media alongside cultural events such as summer festivals in Kyoto and Fukuoka.