OSAKA — Further regional integration and the future of nuclear power in the prefecture with the nation's largest number of reactors are topping voter concerns in Kansai heading into the April 10 elections.
The Nara and Fukui gubernatorial elections are being closely watched not only in the region but elsewhere for their impact on the national debates on decentralization and the future of nuclear disaster response measures.
The Nara poll is also seen as a political test for Osaka Gov. Toru Hashimoto, who has voiced support for an opponent of Nara Gov. Shogo Arai. Hashimoto hopes a win by the challenger will continue to expand his base of political allies outside Osaka Prefecture.