Shinjiro Koizumi Asks Local Support Group for 50000 Yen in Shocking Document

A “mysterious e-mail” from his publicist

It is reported that Koizumi has been rapidly sending similar documents to other political groups and registered funding management organizations. Considering the depleted local economy, this can be described as a disconnected request.

I inquired with Koizumi’s campaign team about the intention behind sending this fax while promoting a cost-effective campaign. However, I did not receive a response by the deadline.

Koizumi’s disconnect is not limited to requests for donations. On September 4, A, a public relations officer for Koizumi’s campaign, suddenly sent the following email to the heads of the 16 companies in the Hirakawa Press Club at the LDP headquarters.

“Thank you to all the ‘Koizumi reporters’ for covering Koizumi’s activities through daily visits and informal interviews. During the three-week election campaign, I wanted to greet everyone in advance and share some thoughts about our campaign headquarters, as well as create opportunities for casual conversation. However, given the timing, this is the only chance I have to invite you.

• This is off the record.

• Please attend individually. No accompanying reporters or photographers will be allowed under any circumstances.

• This is intended to share Koizumi’s thoughts on this election and exchange information regarding your interests in him. Please understand that we will refrain from answering questions about other candidates.

He mentioned that he might have coffee with the heads, so he plans to buy and bring his own coffee. Everyone is encouraged to bring their own drinks as well.”

A reporter who received the email sighs as he shares his thoughts.

“If he were calling the assigned reporters, that would be one thing, but suddenly sending such an email to the head reporters without regard for our schedules and saying, ‘Come to the office with coffee right now,’ is frustrating. When I reluctantly went, Koizumi just chatted away. He talked about how he used to work hard in the baseball club, recalling a moment during his last summer tournament when he faced a full base situation and ended up hitting a ground ball to the pitcher. Since then, he’s been all about full swings.

I didn’t expect him to discuss grand visions like ‘this is the kind of society I want’ or ‘this is the cabinet I envision,’ but I was appalled that he didn’t mention any key policies or offer any detailed analysis of voter support. He probably wanted to show his enthusiasm to the media, but instead, he just exposed the lack of substance.”