Massive comic-book nerd elected leader of Japan
Otaku-friendly right-wing politician Taro Aso has been elected Prime Minister of Japan. Whether this will result in new trade regulations prompting a tide of hentai and vinyl figures onto U.S. markets is unclear - but is a much-hoped for result, if you ask me.
Aso has also managed a rare feat among LDP members — he’s popular among the young. He’s an avid fan of “manga” comic books, and has spent years arguing that Japan should use its pop culture as a diplomatic tool.
Snap elections, however, would be a major gamble for the party, which is bleeding public support and facing widespread anger over mismanagement of pension funds and a general dissatisfaction with the status quo.
“This could be the beginning of the end of the LDP,” said Jiro Yamaguchi, a political scientist at Hokkaido University. “Aso cannot be another Koizumi. He has no clear policies — just look at his Cabinet lineup, which looks like he only invited his friends.”
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