Meet Taro Kono, a distinguished politician with a degree from Georgetown University and a background as a foreign and defense minister. Fluent in English, Kono has a unique appeal to foreign audiences, setting him apart from his peers in Japan’s political landscape.
At 61 years old, Kono carries an aura of progressive reform and has garnered popularity both within the public and his party, the Liberal Democratic Party. In the 2021 LDP presidential election, he came in second behind Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, showcasing his strong support from the party’s rank-and-file members.
Despite his impressive performance in the election, Kishida ultimately emerged victorious with the support of LDP lawmakers. However, Kono’s widespread appeal and experience make him a prominent figure in Japanese politics, known for his forward-thinking approach and ability to connect with international audiences.