Question from a reader:
Regarding the selection results of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election candidates announced by Ishimaru Shinji, it has been reported that 77% of the candidates are high-class individuals earning over 8 million yen annually. What is the intention behind this? It seems that these candidates lack policies, and I worry that the opinions and voices of those with
lower incomes will be ignored if high-income individuals are involved in politics. Politics should concern everyone, yet I feel it is unfair to distinguish people based on their income. What do you think about this?
Reflecting on Candidates Earning Over 8 Million Yen
Recently, the selection results of the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election candidates announced by Ishimaru Shinji have become a hot topic. Apparently, a staggering 77% of the candidates are high-class individuals earning over 8 million yen. When I heard this, I couldn’t help but exclaim, “What? Really?” There are many situations where high-income individuals gather around us, but when it starts to influence politics, it raises some concerns. Personally, I love comedy and enjoy watching various stand-up acts, but sometimes I find myself thinking, “Politics isn’t funny.” Especially when many candidates seem to lack substantial policies, it raises my worries.
Whose Politics Is It?
Certainly, I understand the concern that if high-income individuals are involved in politics, the opinions and voices of those with lower incomes might be ignored. As a father raising children, I hope for a political landscape that reflects the real voices of families struggling to make ends meet. For example, when my friend mentioned, “Support for families with children is really necessary,” I couldn’t help but wonder if that opinion would reach the political arena. Moreover, just the other day, when I took my child to the park and chatted with other parents, I heard comments like, “The cost of education for children is tough,” and “The recent rise in prices is really problematic.” I believe it is essential for such voices to be reflected in politics.
Moments of Feeling Unfairness
There’s an undeniable sense of unfairness when people are differentiated by their income. Sometimes, I think, “I’m still young, so politics doesn’t concern me,” but the reality is that when you have children, you can’t help but consider the future. I truly believe that politics should concern everyone. Now, I’ll stop here, but what do you all think? If you have any memories or experiences related to the biases in politics based on income, please feel free to share in the comments! By thinking together, we might be able to improve our future just a little bit.
