The open Richmond mayoral race on October 17, 2026, features a crowded field after longtime incumbent Malcolm Brodie opted not to run, producing closely matched early probabilities among frontrunners Alexa Loo, Sheldon Starrett, Rob Howard, and Kash Heed. Multiple candidates have announced or formed slates ahead of the September nomination window, with a mid-August debate highlighting differences on local priorities such as housing, public safety, and fiscal management. High undecided shares in available polling reflect limited voter information this far out, keeping implied probabilities tight and sensitive to further announcements, endorsements, or campaign spending patterns that could consolidate support before ballots are cast.