"Bullhorn" is appropriately named...

So despite the fact that the American election is getting most of the media spotlight, it's also election time here in Japan. The last prime minister recently resigned, forcing the appointment of a new one (Taro Aso, whose love for manga and anime makes me overlook his chronic hoof-in-mouth disease and nationalistic attitude to a certain extent >.>). Because of this, several other government positions also need new people, and so it's campaign time here. In America, this would mean a flurry of ads and personal appearances and whatnot by the candidates; here, it means it's time for political announcements of a different sort. The Japanese campaign tactic of choice is decidedly much lower-tech -- they drive around the city in cars modified with huge speakers and shout their names and platforms to all the residents in drive-by fashion. All day. Loudly. Starting at 8:30 this morning. Did I mention today is Saturday? >.< Ugh.

Anyway, just checking in. More info to come later. I promise I'll make a post with actual substance here soon. Until then, here's your random j-pic: