Story perspectives

Declassified Files Reveal CIA Millions Kept Japan’s LDP in Power

5/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Declassified documents show the CIA funneled millions to Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party in the 1950s-1960s to counter communism and suppress opposition.
The covert aid lasted until the early 1970s, helped the LDP maintain a 38-year one-party rule and resist public opposition to U.S. bases.
Ambassador U. Alexis Johnson (1966-1969) called financing a friendly party acceptable, prompting the LDP’s rule to end last year after scandals and reviving questions about U.S. influence.

1 of 1

Story summary

Declassified documents show the CIA funneled millions to Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party in the 1950s-1960s to counter communism and suppress opposition.
The covert aid lasted until the early 1970s, helped the LDP maintain a 38-year one-party rule and resist public opposition to U.S. bases.
Ambassador U. Alexis Johnson (1966-1969) called financing a friendly party acceptable, prompting the LDP’s rule to end last year after scandals and reviving questions about U.S. influence.