Americans are voting in elections Tuesday that are likely to shift the balance of power in the U.S. Congress, posing a serious challenge to President Barack Obama's legislative agenda.
Voters across the country are lining up at public schools and civic centers, taking a few minutes to cast their ballots on a regular work day in the United States.
Polls show the Republican Party poised to take control of the House of Representatives from Mr. Obama's Democratic Party. The Republicans are likely to gain a few seats in the Senate as well.
With unemployment near 10 percent, serious concerns about the U.S. economy have helped to energize Republicans. The party's chairman, Michael Steele, said at the end of campaigning Republicans are hoping for a "fresh start with the American people."
Republicans are also gaining ground with the support of the "Tea Party" movement, a loosely organized but vocal group calling for lower taxes and less government spending.
Mr. Obama has been trying to rally Democratic voters who came out in huge numbers two years ago to elect him as president. He is taking part in a number of radio interviews Tuesday to urge people to vote.
One key race to watch is in the western state of Nevada, where Senate Majority Leader, Democrat Harry Reid, is facing a tough challenge from a "Tea Party" supported candidate, Sharron Angle. Polls show the race too close to predict.
U.S. states are also holding votes for governors, local officials and ballot measures.
Some information for this report was provided by AP, Reuters and NYTimes
