A closely fought election on a southern Japanese island cluster is highlighting a growing acceptance among younger voters in Japan for a stronger military to counter threats from China.
For decades, voters in Okinawa have bristled over hosting the bulk of America’s military facilities in Japan on their subtropical island chain known for its long lifespans and white beaches. Service members have occasionally committed serious crimes, and noise pollution remains constant. A Marine Corps air base in Ginowan City is a particular source of ire.
But ahead of voters going to the polls on Sunday across the prefecture that stretches toward Taiwan, anger over the American bases is no longer dominating the debate. Instead, as Chinese jets and drones buzz around Okinawa, the calculation is changing.