Among 47 provinces to hold PAO elections, Chiang Mai and Phuket are expected to see intense contests, particularly between the ruling Pheu Thai Party and the People's Party in Chiang Mai.

As mentioned earlier, despite its victory at the PAO polls, Pheu Thai will face a tough challenge to maximise its gains and clinch 200 seats, as Thaksin hopes, in the 2027 national election.