Incumbent Jan Nadrchal of ANO leads the market at 53.5% ahead of the October 9–10, 2026 municipal elections that will determine the city council and subsequent mayoral selection. His narrow edge over Jakub Rychtecký at 39.5% stems from Nadrchal’s established role since 2022 and ANO’s organizational strength, while Rychtecký heads a broadened Žijeme Pardubice coalition incorporating additional civic groups. The race stays tight because the pair share recent governing experience on budgeting, infrastructure, and urban planning, with limited public polling to signal voter shifts. A fragmented field—featuring separate ODS, STAN, TOP 09, and smaller lists—dilutes opposition votes without elevating any single alternative. Post-election coalition talks and final council seat distribution remain the primary variables that could widen the gap.