A Japanese newspaper distributed an extra edition in central Tokyo on US President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race.
The extra was given to commuters and passers-by outside Tokyo Station in Japan’s capital from 9 a.m. on Monday.
A company employee in his 40s who picked up a copy said he was surprised to learn the news. He said he will closely look at the policies advocated by the new candidate of the Democratic Party.
Another company employee in his 60s said Biden’s withdrawal did not come as a surprise because so much reporting had been done on it.
He said the Republican nominee, Donald Trump, will come out strong as things stand, but that he is interested in how far the Democrats will rebound in such a short time.
He said he will closely watch the developments as the outcome of the November election will impact Japanese businesses.
A self-employed woman in her 50s said she personally preferred Biden to remain in the race, but given Biden’s age, she is hopeful about the new candidate.