Trump's new man in Japan is key political adviser

Tokyo

A BUSINESSMAN and close political confidante of US President-elect Donald Trump will become the next US ambassador to Japan. William Hagerty will replace Caroline Kennedy after Mr Trump assumes office on Jan 20, according to media reports on Thursday.

Mr Trump is considering appointing Mr Hagerty, a key aide in his transition team, as ambassador, Japan's Kyodo news service reported "sources familiar with bilateral relations", as saying. Reuters reported on Thursday from Washington that sources there had confirmed the appointment.