Dominican President Luis Abinader decisively won the PRM primaries, with official figures confirming him as the party’s candidate for the May 19 election.
He garnered 636,867 votes, making up 90.91% of the total with 81.53% of votes counted.
In contrast, Guido Gómez Mazara secured 38,937 votes. Ramón Alburquerque and Delia Ortiz followed with 14,822 and 9,916 votes, respectively.
Consequently, Abinader now faces opposition candidates Leonel Fernández and Abel Martínez in May.
Independent polls suggest they’re falling behind him, a 56-year-old economist.
Additionally, Abinader is the first confirmed presidential nominee. Other contenders await ceremonial ratifications by their respective parties.
Despite Abinader’s strong lead, some analysts predict a possible runoff in June.
Furthermore, PRM leaders praised the high turnout and civic spirit after eight voting hours. Initially, they expected 300,000 party members to vote.
Yet, this number doubled, according to Central Electoral Board data.
Moreover, PRM also picked mayoral candidates for Santo Domingo West and East. They selected other local election candidates too, aiming for February 18 elections.
Lastly, the party will finalize the remaining senatorial and deputy candidates through surveys and direct acclamations later this month.
Background Dominican Republic Election
Abinader’s prospects for May’s election look bright in light of this primary win. His overwhelming victory sends a strong signal to opposition parties.
The PRM’s high voter turnout also indicates an engaged base, keen on securing a second term for him.
Although strong in the polls, the possibility of a June runoff can’t be dismissed entirely.
Abinader’s economic background might appeal to voters concerned about financial stability.
His main rivals, Fernández and Martínez, need to strategize effectively to close the polling gap.
Still, this landslide victory doesn’t guarantee a win in the general elections. Voters often react unpredictably, and the dynamics could change in the coming weeks.