The UTokyo-Asahi Survey (UTAS), a collaboration between the University of Tokyo and the Asahi Shimbun, has been conducting surveys of political leaders and voters since 2003. The 2024 survey analyzed candidates’ positions on key issues such as the constitution, foreign affairs, security, the economy, society, and political reform. The LDP and CPJ support constitutional revision and strengthening defense, while the JCP, SDP, and Reiwa strongly oppose these measures. Although 57% of the candidates supported constitutional amendments, support for revising the Self-Defense Forces clause remains below the two-thirds majority required. Economic policy showed a shift as support for quantitative easing declined, especially within the LDP. Debt concerns divided the parties, with the LDP, DPP, and Reiwa less concerned and the CDP candidates more cautious. The rise of smaller populist parties such as Reiwa, Sanseitō, and CPJ suggests increasing polarization. Social policies also reflected changes, with support for nuclear power rising to 44%. While acceptance of same-sex marriage and separate surnames for married couples increased, the LDP remained divided. The 2024 election focused on political reform, largely due to the LDP's funding scandal. Opposition parties criticized the revised Political Funds Control Law and called for greater transparency in political funding. The ideological gap between the LDP and the CDP narrowed, while new extremist parties emerged. The DPP, which gained influence as a centrist force, may play a key role in future coalition formations.
