OSAKA — Three years into his first term, Osaka Gov. Toru Hashimoto continues to enjoy some of the highest ratings of any politician, with media polls showing 70 to 80 percent of the electorate approve of his job performance.
But the outspoken governor's policies have come under increasing attack of late by current and former politicians, academics and others who warn Hashimoto's brand of populism will lead to a form of dictatorship.
Since becoming the youngest governor at age 38, Hashimoto has made headlines locally and nationally with his efforts to reform both Osaka Prefecture and the wider Kansai region. His growing cooperation and ties with local government leaders nationwide, ranging from former Miyazaki Gov. Hideo Higashikokubaru to newly re-elected Nagoya Mayor Takashi Kawamura, have also raised eyebrows.