There will be a problem during an extremely tense situation if one vote can make a difference in the outcome.

Fathers in Japan are entitled to 52 weeks of paternity leave on almost 60% of their pay. It is probably the most generous paternity leave provision in the world. If the country is serious about arresting the decline of children then this provision should be publicized widely and often. So, why is it not? Probably because, like a lot of the liberal laws in Japan, it is not really to be taken seriously. Custom and fear must dictate behaviour. I despise the LDP but if Miyazaki brings the hypocrisy to attention then more power to him. But this might be Tanigaki's real worry.

If it may come down to one vote, he can be there if he wants. But how often does that happen?

In the meantime, he can spend his time with his child's first weeks on earth.

How hard is it for the old fogies to figure this out?

Barack Obama missed more than 60% of senate votes while he was a senator (64.3%, to be exact). I guess Japan has more important things to vote on than America, or maybe not.

Politicians everywhere say stupid things without thinking, and this has to be one of the silliest things I've heard come from the mouth of an elected official. He should retract his statement and apologize, bow really low and get kicked in the behind.

When is the last time 1 vote made a difference?

There will be a problem during an extremely tense situation if one vote can make a difference in the outcome.

Never happen. One party is ramming through every law that they want through right now. (As if Mr. LDP Tanigaki doesn't know.)