Okinawa's busy political year set to have major impact on national security

In the first of several Okinawa elections this year with national political and defense implications, voters in Nago go to the polls Jan. 23 to choose a mayor.

Their choice boils down to a candidate who is generally in favor of the relocation plans for U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, from a congested area of Ginowan to Nago's Henoko coastal district, or one who is adamantly against it.

Depending on the victor, the long-controversial project — already years behind schedule — could either continue to move forward as currently planned or face further delays. The latter possibility would create political complications for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and affect U.S.-Japan defense relations.