Date of birth: Aug. 22, 1938

Party: Independent

Electoral district: Lower House; Tokyo proportional representation (10th term)

Before the DPJ's historic ascent in 2009, Yosano was the LDP's finance minister and state minister in charge of financial services in Taro Aso's coalition with New Komeito.

In April, he left the LDP to join hands with colleague Takeo Hiranuma to launch Tachiagare Nippon (Sunrise Party of Japan). Versed in economics, Yosano has held key posts, including trade minister and chief Cabinet secretary. He was an aide to ex-Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone before entering the Lower House in 1976. His new post puts him in charge of birthrate and gender equality issues.

Yosano enjoys photography, fishing and go, and has played many matches against DPJ don Ichiro Ozawa.

*Appointed to take over duties of Banri Kaieda Jan. 14, 2011.