The YSR Congress party (YCP) in Andhra Pradesh appears to be in denial regarding the electoral mandate delivered in the recent state polls. Some party leaders, including Roja, have suggested allegations of EVM tampering, while others speculate that the state may face early elections due to the proposed Jamili elections. However, the party seems to be focused on everything but critically evaluating their substantial defeat and learning from past mistakes.

In a recent meeting in Tirupati, YCP's no. 2 leader, Vijayasai Reddy, voiced his predictions about the political landscape, stating that the incumbent NDA government's tenure would be cut short by the Jamili elections. "Be prepared YCP cadres. The next elections are coming soon. By the end of 2027, AP will go to polls again," he declared. This statement appears to be an attempt to rally the party base, which is still reeling from the 2024 electoral loss.

While there is a possibility of early national polls in line with the NDA's "One Nation One Election" initiative, the YCP's focus on this narrative seems inconsistent, especially after failing to secure even the status of a formal opposition party. Following Jagan Mohan Reddy's controversial governance style, referred to as the “Button-pressing rule,” party leaders’ efforts to instill optimism about their future prospects may not resonate well with disheartened party cadres.

The YCP's current approach raises concerns about its ability to adapt and strategize effectively, as they seem to prioritize speculation over meaningful self-assessment and reform.