Early morning coverage focused on former Agriculture Minister Eto's dismissal mystery, continuing the rice scandal that led to Koizumi's appointment yesterday. By mid-morning, Koizumi faced immediate pressure to reduce rice prices, which Prime Minister Ishiba had promised to lower to 3000 yen per 5kg.
Meanwhile, the debate on separate surnames for married couples gained momentum with Hikaru Utada's new song supporting the option and the LDP drafting a proposal to allow maiden name use. Economic concerns deepened as listed companies forecast their first profit decline in six years due to US tariffs and yen appreciation.
By early afternoon, the Jiji news poll revealed cabinet support had fallen to a record low of 20.9%, reflecting the political cost of the rice crisis. The government began considering utility subsidies to reduce household electricity and gas bills by 1,000 yen monthly, suggesting attempts to address mounting economic pressures.