山内佳菜子

Kanako Yamauchi is a Japanese politician currently serving as a member of the House of Councillors, representing the Miyazaki Prefecture constituency. Born in Miyazaki City, she graduated from Tohoku University and worked as a journalist for the Miyazaki Nichinichi Shimbun for 19 years. She began her political career as a member of the Miyazaki Prefectural Assembly, serving two terms starting in 2021. In 2025, she was elected to the House of Councillors, becoming the first female national legislator from Miyazaki Prefecture under the current Constitution. A single mother of two, she has been noted for her advocacy and her successful campaign supported by a coalition of opposition parties.