Abinader consolidates his power after overwhelming electoral victory

Dominican President Luis Abinader has managed to consolidate his power after a resounding victory in the elections, which have given him broad support to continue with his economic and migration policies. With a commanding 57.15% of the votes counted, Abinader surpassed his closest rival, former president Leonel Fernández, by 28 points, who conceded defeat at the beginning of the vote count. Before his supporters gathered at the campaign headquarters, the 56-year-old president expressed his commitment not to disappoint the trust received and affirmed that he will not fail them in his second four-year term starting on August 16. Abinader's power has also been reinforced in Congress, where his Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) and allies obtained significant advantages. In the Senate, they dominate in 24 out of the 32 provinces, including the border areas. Experts like Nelson Espinal from Harvard University highlight that the support given by the Dominican people to President Abinader represents a significant endorsement of power that strengthens him significantly. Abinader's migration policy, especially regarding Haiti, has been a key point in his popularity. The situation of poverty and violence in Haiti has led the Dominican population to remain vigilant against uncontrolled immigration from their neighboring country. That is why the president has implemented measures such as raids on undocumented immigrants, deportations, strengthening military presence on the border, and the construction of a wall between both countries, with plans to extend it in his next term. The anti-corruption discourse and measures implemented by Abinader during the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to his high approval rating of 70% among the population. During the electoral campaign, the opposition denounced alleged irregularities such as "massive vote buying" and pre-marked ballots in favor of the ruling party, which was denied by the government. Over 400 international observers were present in the electoral process to ensure its transparency. While Abinader is expected to propose a fiscal reform with new taxes and suggest a constitutional reform in his second term, the president clarified that there will be no changes regarding reelection. Amid a celebratory atmosphere for his victory, the president thanked the support of the people and pledged to continue working with honesty, transparency, and efficiency for the benefit of the Dominican Republic.