One In Five Will Vote For Vijay In Next Tamil Nadu Elections: Journalist Mani

Political journalist Mani has forecast that actor-turned-politician Vijay, founder of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), will emerge as a significant factor in Tamil Nadu's 2026 assembly elections.

Is The TVK The Only Challenger To DMK?

However, he maintains that the primary contest will remain between the DMK and AIADMK alliances.
Speaking on a YouTube channel, Mani analyzed: "Vijay will be impactful, but the real fight is between DMK and AIADMK. DMK is like a big banyan tree - it controls the government, has financial strength, media influence, and a powerful alliance. Never underestimate AIADMK either; it's a mass-based party that will likely ally with BJP. Smaller parties may join this bloc."

Regarding Vijay's prospects, Mani was categorical: "Vijay will finish third. The narrative of a DMK vs BJP direct fight is overstated. However, I completely agree with strategist Prashant Kishore's assessment that Vijay commands 15-20% vote share - that's one in five voters. The crucial question is which major party he'll damage more."

The journalist revealed surprising ground realities. He said that in traditional DMK households across generations, we're seeing unprecedented Vijay support. Women beneficiaries of welfare schemes, first-time voters, youth, and educated sections are particularly drawn to him. In sample surveys, 7 out of 10 respondents favor Vijay.

Who Will Vote For TVK?

"I am telling the truth, putting aside my likes and dislikes. I am surprised that Vijay is having so much of support. If you ask a 10-person group, seven say they will vote for Vijay....women who are the beneficiaries of the right Rs. 1000 scheme too will vote for Vijay. Families which have traditionally voted for the DMK for generations too vote for the ruling party."

Mani concluded with a striking prediction: "Vijay will be a disruptor, not a victor. His entry will reshape political equations, but the throne will remain with either the DMK or AIADMK alliance. The million-dollar question is whose votes he'll split more decisively."

This analysis comes weeks after Vijay declared at a party event that the electoral battle would be between DMK and his TVK, signaling his ambition to position himself as a viable alternative to established Dravidian parties. Political observers are closely watching whether the popular actor can translate his screen stardom into electoral success.