The Real Power Behind Elections

Today marks the final day of the House of Representatives election. In this election, Ryuhei Kawada, whom I support, is running with the "Yukoku Rengo" (Patriots' Alliance). I had the opportunity to help out as a volunteer, and for the first time, I was able to see the inner workings of an election.

In the previous 27th House of Councillors election on July 20, 2025, Mr. Kawada unfortunately lost his seat. Now, about six months later, the 51st General Election is being held on February 8, 2026.

The situation was extreme, with only two days between the dissolution of parliament and the official announcement. Candidates and their secretaries stayed at the office around the clock, working through the night. The dedication required to push through such a grueling schedule is truly extraordinary.

Some people who immerse themselves in spirituality tend to let their intentions grow strong while escaping from reality. But intentions alone cannot change the world. At this rate, with the risk of conscription, war, and the disappearance of Japan as we know it, I couldn't stand the idea of doing nothing while such a crisis looms.

Driven by the desire to do whatever I could, I rushed to the office of Mr. Haraguchi, the leader of the Yukoku Rengo, day after day. I assisted with the preparation of candidacy documents right up until the official announcement.

On the evening before the deadline, I began tackling a mountain of paperwork. Realizing I couldn't do it alone, I went to the Chiba Prefecture Election Administration Commission to have the documents checked. I have nothing but gratitude for the staff there who, despite it being late at night, kindly guided me and pointed out errors.

I hopped on the last train back to Chairman Haraguchi's office in the Members' Office Building. With the help of his secretaries, we gathered and prepared the necessary documents, finally seeing a light at the end of the tunnel around 4:00 AM. From there, we continued to gather information and finalize the papers toward the 5:00 PM deadline, successfully submitting everything on time.

I was told these documents usually take about three months to prepare carefully, yet I finished them in nearly a single day. I imagine all the candidates this time had to sprint through this same brutal schedule. Although it was a last-minute submission, I never imagined that I, as an amateur, would be responsible for preparing a national candidate's registration.

It was a rare opportunity that only came about because they were so desperate for help, but I feel it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Beyond the image of politicians seen in the media, this experience convinced me that it is the power of the secretaries that truly keeps politics moving. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Haraguchi's secretaries who guided me and to everyone at the Election Commission.

Now, all I can do is pray that the candidates, who fought so hard with passion to make it to the starting line, will somehow win their seats.
T
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(Rev. Satoshi)