Motohiko Saito's triumph in the Hyogo gubernatorial election was marked by a strategic use of social media tactics that mirrored elements of former U.S. President Donald Trump's playbook. Saito, who faced adversity after a no-confidence motion ousted him from his governor post, successfully reclaimed his position through a campaign that involved debunking accusations, promoting conspiracy theories, and intensifying his critique of traditional media channels.
Saito's approach to the election involved a shift towards a social media-centered strategy, which allowed him to amplify his message, garner support, and counter negative narratives. By tapping into the power of social media, Saito was able to mobilize volunteers, reconnect with former classmates for backing, and rally a strong support base to propel his successful bid for governorship.
One of the key components of Saito's campaign was the alliance formed with Takashi Tachibana, a political figure who lent vocal support and utilized digital platforms to defend Saito against allegations and discredit mainstream media reporting. This partnership, coupled with Saito's own social media presence and grassroots volunteer network, played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of the election and swaying public opinion in his favor.