But his involvement in discussions over the Futenma base issue might be viewed as a negative by voters.

NPR: Japan's Prime Minister Resigns Over U.S. Base

America and Japan revised a 2006 accord on relocating the US Marines' Futenma air base in Okinawa, after the process had stalled because of local opposition.

ECONOMIST: Politics this week

The idea behind the heliport is that it will take over the functions of the marines' Futenma air base at Ginowan, in the prosperous southern half of the main island.

ECONOMIST: Left on the beach

The three largest bases are Kadena Air Base, White Beach Naval Facility, and Futenma Marine Air Station.

FORBES: As Japan Commemorates A Postwar Return To Sovereignty Okinawans Lament A Day Of Shame