Marat Kambolov holds a commanding position in the September 18, 2026, South Ossetian presidential election as acting president and incumbent prime minister, backed by endorsements from all major parliamentary parties including Nykhas, United Ossetia, the Communist Party, and the People's Party, as well as former presidents. His rise followed Alan Gagloev's June 2026 resignation to advise Russian President Vladimir Putin, after which Kambolov assumed the role under constitutional succession amid a new integration treaty allowing greater Russian citizen involvement in local offices. Recent candidate debates and local meetings have focused on economic issues, anti-corruption measures, and social policy, with Kambolov highlighting Russian agreements, while registered opponents such as Kazbek Kodoyev, Zurab Kokoyev, and Murat Valiyev trail significantly. The election follows a residency rule adjustment and unified party support that have shaped trader consensus on the outcome. Late developments like turnout shifts or unforeseen disputes remain the primary variables that could alter results before voting.