“Upper House Election: Mie’s Confirmed Winner Tomoko Kojima (Constitutional Democratic Party/New Party) Highlights ‘Teacher Shortage as a Major Issue’ Based on Her Experience as a Middle School Educator; LDP and Komeito Expected to Lose Majority”

We spoke with Tomoko Kojima (Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan / New), who has been confirmed elected in the Mie Prefecture Senate election. Drawing from her experience as a junior high school teacher, she stated, “Teacher shortages are a major challenge.”

“Congratulations on your confirmed election, Ms. Kojima.”

“Thank you very much.”

“Please share your honest thoughts at this moment.”

“I’m very happy, and I’m reminded once again that I must stay focused and work hard.”

“The official campaign began on July 3. How do you reflect on the election battle up to this point?”

“Well, this was my first 17-day election campaign, so honestly, it was quite challenging to figure out how to direct my efforts effectively.”

“You have experience as a prefectural assembly member. How do you plan to apply this experience in national politics moving forward?”

“That’s right. Many people have shared their concerns with me, and as a prefectural assembly member, I worked on resolving these issues and coordinating discussions with various stakeholders. I hope to make good use of that experience.”