This trend held true until 2006.

However, after the delimitation of constituencies, the district has largely turned "red" since 2011. Though the UDF came to power that year, the LDF secured seven out of 13 seats in the district. In the subsequent two elections, the Left further consolidated its dominance, leaving the UDF with just one seat.

In the upcoming assembly elections, the LDF is aiming to clinch one more seat to complete its sweep, while the UDF is striving to win at least half the seats. Meanwhile, the NDA, looking to prove that its Lok Sabha victory was no fluke, is attempting to turn several constituencies into triangular contests.

Also read | Kerala assembly elections: Unpredictable Kollam turns battleground as LDF faces UDF challenge

Thrissur constituency: Too close to call

The constituency remains unpredictable, with a high-profile contest between Alankode Leelakrishnan, Rajan J Pallan, and Padmaja Venugopal. The LDF is banking on its core cadre votes, along with potential neutral support, to secure a victory for Alankode. The UDF believes Rajan's long-standing grassroots connections, including his tenure as Mayor, will work in his favour. Padmaja, contesting after switching fronts, is hoping voters will give her a chance despite past defeats.

Ollur: LDF confident

The LDF expects K Rajan to retain the seat, though Shaji Kodankandath is putting up a strong fight.

Manalur: Prestige battle

All three fronts see this as a prestige contest. TN Prathapan (UDF) and C Ravindranath (LDF) are locked in a tight race. The BJP's KK Aneesh Kumar, a former district president and strong organiser, could influence the outcome in this key constituency.

Also read | Kerala assembly polls: CPM faces crucial test in Kannur as UDF eyes gains in key constituencies

Guruvayur and Nattika: Controversies add uncertainty

Both constituencies have drawn attention after the election announcement. In Guruvayur, remarks by NDA candidate B Gopalakrishnan regarding religion have sparked controversy, the impact of which remains unclear. Sitting MLA NK Akbar (LDF) is seeking to retain the seat, while C H Rasheed (UDF) aims to reclaim it for the Congress-led front.

In Nattika, the last-minute switch of sitting MLA CC Mukundan to the BJP surprised both LDF and UDF. The Left is confident of retaining the seat through former MLA Geetha Gopi, while the Congress has fielded Sunil Laloor.

Kodungallur & Kaipamangalam: Left bastions

These constituencies are traditionally LDF strongholds. The UDF hopes Youth Congress state president O Janeesh can make inroads, but the popularity of VR Sunilkumar is expected to favour the Left. In Kaipamangalam, the main contest is between KK Vatsaraj (CPI) and TM Nassar (Congress).

Chalakudy: Repeat of past dynamics

The LDF has fielded Biju S Chirayath, a former Congress leader, hoping to split opposition votes. However, the UDF argues that incumbent MLA Sanish Kumar Joseph's popularity will be hard to overcome. The NDA is hopeful of a strong performance from Twenty20 candidate Charlie Paul.

Irinjalakuda: Tight rematch

A close contest is expected between R Bindu (LDF) and Thomas Unniyadan (UDF), with the UDF hoping to avoid internal rifts that affected previous elections.

Pudukkad: Heated contest

The LDF has intensified its campaign, even with the Chief Minister directly participating in rallies. KK Ramachandran faces stiff competition from KM Baburaj (UDF) and A Nagesh (NDA), making this another closely watched seat.

The LDF is confident of holding Chelakkara (U R Pradeep), Kunnamkulam (AC Moideen), and Wadakkanchery (Xavier Chittilappilly). UDF candidates, though announced late, are trying to catch up, while the NDA is aiming to maximise its vote share.