Medina's re-election attempt follows a constitutional reform in 2015 that allows him to stand for a second consecutive term. Although the reform was contested, he had sufficient support to pass it and it looks increasingly likely to translate into a second electoral victory for Medina and his ruling Dominican Liberation Party (Partido de la Liberacion Dominicana, PLD).
Heightened political instability in Haiti could have an impact on the Dominican Republic in terms of migration and security.
A landslide re-election would strengthen Medina and reduce the leverage of the opposition PRD, which currently supports him.
The split between the PRD and its splinter PRM faction looks permanent following Abinader's decision to run a separate election campaign.
