Johnny Chiang leads the Taichung mayoral race in trader pricing due to his KMT nomination win over Yang Chiung-ying, established legislative profile as vice speaker, and focus on transportation upgrades plus industrial development. Recent October polling shows him narrowly ahead of DPP candidate Ho Hsin-chun at 34.3% to 32.4% with over 32% undecided, though expectations of victory favor Chiang by a wider margin. Ho draws strong youth and southern district support plus presidential backing, narrowing the contest in a city where KMT incumbency advantages have historically shaped outcomes ahead of the November 28 vote. Minor candidates and independents register minimal market traction.