Japanese PM Takaichi Prioritizes X Over Press Conferences

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is reducing traditional press conferences and media interviews in favor of updates via X [1, 2].

This shift represents a fundamental change in how the Japanese government interacts with the public and the press. By bypassing the traditional media filter, the administration seeks to control its narrative and maintain approval ratings while minimizing the risk of verbal slips during live questioning.

Takaichi took office in early April 2026 [3, 4]. Since then, her administration has leaned heavily on social media to communicate policy and daily activities. The Prime Minister said the strategy is intended to convey "correct information in a timely manner" ^[1]. She also aims to make the work of politicians feel more accessible to the general public [1, 3].

Reports indicate that this preference for digital communication has persisted for six months since her appointment ^[3]. The strategy focuses on X, formerly known as Twitter, as the primary hub for official announcements [1, 2]. This approach has drawn criticism from political opponents who argue the Prime Minister is avoiding accountability.

Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the Democratic Party for the People, said the platform was used on April 7 ^[1]. Meanwhile, Ichiro Ozawa criticized the Prime Minister's schedule and transparency on April 30, saying that compared to previous prime ministers, Takaichi's schedule appears empty ^[5].

The administration maintains that the digital-first approach ensures efficiency. However, the reduction in "kakoimi" — the traditional scrum-style interviews where reporters surround a politician — marks a departure from the standard operating procedure of the Kantei [1, 2].