Prime Minister Shinzo Abe secured strong support from the Liberal Democratic Party's local chapters in securing a third term as president of the party.
Now, just over six months before nationwide gubernatorial and assembly elections take place in April 2019, Abe and his LDP must turn their attention toward numerous local government requests for infrastructure, economic and social welfare projects, and financial assistance.
"Abe has indicated he agrees with all of the proposals our organization gave to the LDP presidential candidates. We hope Abe makes decisive efforts and shows leadership in cooperation between the central government and the prefectures, starting with a quick realization of our suggestions regarding rapid recovery from large-scale natural disasters," said Saitama Gov. Kiyoshi Ueda, who heads the National Governors' Association, in a statement following Abe's re-election.