Post-Abe candidates make late-stage appeals in debate

Suga vowed to push forward with "Abenomics," the outgoing prime minister's signature policy mix of drastic monetary easing, fiscal stimulus and structural reforms, which Suga said had succeeded in creating millions of jobs across the country.

Structural reforms?

The "millions of jobs" are low wage, part time. and fall into the 20/30 hours rule, requiring mandatory contributions to the social security system.

The reality is a “family” real level of consumption has been bumping along the bottom for the past two decades

Sorry, but there are possibly hundreds of thousands of J 50+ full timers, overpaid with appalling levels of productivity, a perpetual fist full of paper moving around an office

Japan Average Monthly Wages1970-2020 Data | 2021-2022 Forecast | Historical | Chart

https://tradingeconomics.com/japan/wages

If this is the best, one can only imagine what the worst looks like

It's pretty clear it was decided long ago who gets the crown. As for a debate? Yet to see a proper debate about anything. Just old men in suits nodding knowing, having been told the outcome in advance.

Well, I’m pleasantly surprised with Suga. I thought that I would have much more of an issue with him, but judging by this article, he’s actually the best of the three. I mean I’m not the biggest fan of Abenomics either, but with most other positions, especially being against that Asian version of NATO, I have to say I’m in favor of him.

Kishida is the only one that doesn’t look like he’s on some kind of medication.

"Kishida acknowledged the merits of Abenomics, but said the benefits had yet to trickle down to the middle class and called for more efforts to raise base wages, including tax cuts for firms that do so".

While this is the public subsidizing of wages that should come from the fair distribution of revenue, at least it is a proposal.

Suga shares the failed dependence on the trickle down strategies of Abenomics and in continuing its policies; his efforts to raise wages will consist of Abe-like bi-annual "urging" to Japan Inc. leaders that will be instantly forgotten.

Does it even matter? We all know their "supporters" can't change their minds even if they want to.

What a show. Proudly brought to you by the LDP.

Does not look good at all.

I can smell the inspiration from here

A debate? Well a discussion between friends,

A game of cards deploying a "bent corner ploy"

Ishiba's body language is priceless!