At the time, Japan’s economy was on a roll after five years under Abe’s mentor, Junichiro Koizumi. Granted, Donald Trump’s trade war sent headwinds Japan’s way. Looked at another way, Trump and fellow populist Abe have much in common. None other than former White House advisor Steve Bannon has called Abe “Trump before Trump.” Bannon’s affection stems from Japan’s authoritarian shift these last six years. Abe might not yell “fake news!” with Trumpian repetition, but Japan’s press freedom ranking has collapsed on his watch.

Source: Forbes February 08, 2019 04:41 UTC