The Malabar District and Kasaragod region of South Canara, which together constitute more than half of present state of Kerala, had their representatives in the Madras Legislative Assembly.

The first was E. M. S. Namboodiripad of the Communist Party of India, whose tenure was cut short by the imposition of President's rule.

Since then the office has alternated between leaders of the Indian National Congress and of the Communist Party of India (Marxist).

E. K. Nayanar is the longest serving holder of the office for a total of 10 years, 353 days.

Pinarayi Vijayan is the incumbent chief minister; his Left Democratic Front government has been in office since 25 May 2016.