Overview
- Ogawa, 43, won a special election triggered by her resignation, defeating four challengers including lawyer Akira Maruyama, 40.
- Turnout rose to 47.32%, up from 39.39% in the February 2024 mayoral election.
- Maruyama lost despite backing from two assembly factions linked to the Liberal Democratic Party and an endorsement from Gunma Gov. Ichita Yamamoto.
- Ogawa stepped down in November after assembly factions moved to submit a no-confidence motion following reports she visited a hotel with a married municipal subordinate; she apologized and denied a sexual relationship.
- With the win, she will serve the remainder of her term through February 2028 after campaigning on policy results such as free school lunches at municipal schools.