The race for the Chief Minister of Kerala is intensifying as the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) prepares to announce its candidate following a significant electoral victory. The UDF won 102 out of 140 seats, ending a decade-long rule by the Left Democratic Front (LDF). Among the top contenders is KC Venugopal, the AICC General Secretary (Organisation) and a close ally of Rahul Gandhi. Venugopal has garnered support from seven Congress leaders, positioning him as the frontrunner for the role. His political career began in student politics, where he served as president of the Kerala Students Union and later as the state president of the Indian Youth Congress. He has represented the Alappuzha constituency as an MLA for three consecutive terms and served as Kerala's tourism minister. Venugopal has also held significant national roles, including serving as a junior minister in the UPA government. His strategic involvement in the recent elections has been pivotal in attracting former CPI(M) leaders to the UDF. The final decision on the Chief Minister candidate is expected to be revealed today.