Japanese Politician’s Campaign Staff Draws Criticism for Attire

Campaign staff for an independent political candidate in Japan recently faced criticism for their choice of attire during the recent House of Representatives election.

Two female staff members for Masafumi Tabuchi, a doctor running in Tokyo’s 26th district, were photographed wearing mini-skirts and fishnet stockings while campaigning. These images quickly circulated on social media, sparking debate.

Source: @arisu_haname on X

Online Reactions

While some online users found the attire humorous, suggesting it was an attempt to appeal to male voters, others criticized it as inappropriate and disrespectful to the electoral process. Some called the choice “too provocative.”

Source: @You_Wasureruna on X
Translation: This is cheating. The perverted votes have guaranteed him victory.

Candidate’s Response

Tabuchi, the candidate, stated that while he instructed his team to wear matching yellow-green jackets, he did not specify a dress code for lower garments. He expressed surprise at the staff’s attire, claiming he was unaware of it until after the fact and that his team attempted to have the women adjust their clothing.

However, Tabuchi emphasized that he could not dictate the attire of volunteers who had joined his campaign through acquaintances.