TOKYO - Takahiro Yasuno, an AI engineer and head of the newly formed political party Team Mirai, has won his first seat in the House of Councillors after the party secured over 2% of the vote in the proportional representation segment of the July election. The result marks a notable entry into national politics by a startup-oriented, tech-driven platform.
Reflecting on Japan’s future, Yasuno emphasized the central role of artificial intelligence in driving economic growth. "Looking ahead to the next 10 years, we must achieve economic growth, and AI will be a key driver. I believe the economy will be led by AI, but Japan is currently 5 to 6 years behind the United States and China," he said.
He expressed a long-term goal of positioning Japan as a global leader in AI science and technology within the next 20 years.
On the significance of his political entry, Yasuno said, "I hope that the entry of startups into politics can help energize the overall atmosphere of the political world. My background as someone with practical experience and expertise in AI is quite rare among lawmakers, and I want to contribute in fields where I can leverage that knowledge."
When asked about the possibility of serving as Minister for Digital Affairs, Yasuno stated, "If I were offered the position, I would openly and seriously consider it."
Source: FNN
