An Uphill Climb

* According to the latest opinion polls, KMT presidential nominee Han Kuo-yu still trails President Tsai Ing-wen of the ruling DPP anywhere from 12-14%. With 73 days to go, it's undoubtedly a formidable challenge for a challenger that often goes off on his own agenda.

* With the possibility of a third presidential ticket looming large, however, Han may benefit from a PFP entrant that has shown to narrow the gap with Tsai. While there's been rumors that former LY Speaker Wang Jyn-ping may join forces with PFP, most believe PFP Chairman James C.Y. Soong remains the most likely third nominee in next January's contest. Things will become clear in the next 10-14 days.

* On the other hand, the political gains from the protests in HK in recent months might have come to an end in Taiwan's presidential election. The impact the HK protests might have had is no longer there. Barring someone/something setting off more controversies, the gap between the leading contestants will likely be narrowing in the coming weeks. Though the race remains far from too-close-to-call, the ultimate prize remains open for all parties concerned.