Candidates for the July 7 gubernatorial election in Tokyo are using digital tools in hopes of raising awareness of their campaigns and policies.
Yuriko Koike, 71, who is seeking a third term as governor of the capital, posted a video of an artificial intelligence version of herself, aptly named “AI Yuriko,” shortly after announcing her candidacy.
AI Yuriko praised Koike’s achievements and promoted her policies, instead of the busy incumbent president, attracting the attention of social media users.
Hoping to paint a recognizable image, Renho, 56, a former MP, held live sessions on her social media account in casual clothes and answered questions from viewers.
Shinji Ishimaru, 41, who attracted attention on social media during his days as mayor of Akitakata, Hiroshima Prefecture, promptly posted photos of his speeches to his account on X, while encouraging attendees to make their voices heard.
They are among 56 people vying for the seat of Tokyo governor in the upcoming elections.
Japan lifted its ban on online campaigning by candidates more than a decade ago. Experts warn that while social media gives voters more insight into candidates, there are risks of information bias.
Yoshimi Nakamura, head of the Net Communication Research Institute, a think tank that studies politicians’ use of social media, said: “Elections have now become a form of entertainment, with people looking for topics that create excitement.”
Some users post incorrect information in the hope of increasing views.
“Voters also need to develop information literacy skills that help determine whether certain social media posts are true and whether certain policies are feasible,” Nakamura said.
