Bangkok: "Pichai" analyzes the final stretch of the 2026 election, highlighting new voters and older voters as crucial factors in determining the number of parliamentary seats. Associate Professor Dr. Pichai Rattadilok Na Phuket, Director of the Doctoral Program in Politics and Development Strategy at NIDA, discussed the strategies of political parties in the lead-up to the 2026 general election on MCOT NEWS FM 100.5. He noted that the Bhumjaithai Party is targeting its conservative voter base in Bangkok to counter the Prachachon Party, while also seeking support from traditional Democrat and Thai Economic Party groups. Their effort could raise their vote share to 26%, though their local elite image might hinder their appeal to the urban middle class.

According to Thai News Agency, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pichai estimates the People's Party might win up to 150 parliamentary seats, driven by their social security policy and Mr. Pita Limjaroenrat's influence on first-time voters. The party aims to include senior citizens aged 60 and above in their voter base, which could significantly increase their seat count if they achieve over 20% penetration. They plan to maintain their stronghold in Bangkok's 33 constituencies, as well as in nearby areas and the eastern region.

In the regional context, the South saw a rise in the Democrat Party's popularity to over 50% in some areas, potentially limiting the Bhumjaithai Party to 10 seats. In the Northeast, a tight race is underway among the People's Party, Pheu Thai Party, and Bhumjaithai Party, with the People's Party slightly ahead at 27%.

Associate Professor Dr. Pichai concluded that while the Bhumjaithai Party aims for 150 seats by attracting former MPs, declining popularity in the South and Northeast might cap their total at around 130 seats. Meanwhile, the People's Party could reach 150 seats due to growing urban support, a decisive factor for this election's outcome.