Associated Press

A look at the three main presidential candidates in elections Sunday in the Dominican Republic:

_ President Hipolito Mejia, 63. Affluent former farmer. Campaigning for second term on image of man of the people, despite growing unrest among poor and worst economic crisis in decades. His populist message of continued subsidies and social programs resonates with many voters amid widespread poverty and unemployment.

_ Former President Leonel Fernandez, 50. Left office amid corruption scandal in 2000. Is front-runner in Sunday's race. Promises to reinstate tight fiscal policies of late 1990s; during his term, economy grew by 8 percent annually and peso traded at 16 to the U.S. dollar, compared to 45 today. Has law degree. Speaks Spanish, English and French. Leads the Dominican Liberation Party.

_ Eduardo Estrella, 50. Leads Reformist Social Christian Party, claims to represent new generation of politicians. Started political career as top adviser to longtime leader Joaquin Balaguer in mid-70s. Became Public Works Secretary in early '90s. Was senator from 1994-1998. Has trailed in opinion polls but could have impact if no candidate gets more than 50 percent, forcing a runoff.