US midterm elections begin as Democrats seek control of Congress
Americans began voting in the November 3 midterm elections, which will determine control of Congress for the final two years of President Donald Trump's term.
All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats are up for election, along with governorships in 39 states.
More than 57 million Americans had already cast their ballots before Election Day, according to early voting data cited by CBS News.
The first polling places opened in Vermont at 5 a.m. Eastern Time, followed by several other states. The earliest polls are scheduled to close at 6 p.m. Eastern Time, when initial results may begin to emerge.
What do the polls suggest?
Democrats enter Election Day with a nine-percentage-point lead over Republicans in CNN's average of national congressional voting polls.
Election forecasters have also shifted several competitive House races toward Democrats, strengthening the party's chances of winning control of the chamber.
The battle for the Senate remains more uncertain. Democrats lead in five closely watched Senate races, according to recent New York Times/Siena College polls, but the outcome will depend on individual state contests rather than the nationwide popular vote.
Republicans are seeking to retain their congressional majorities, including by defending Senate seats in states that have repeatedly supported Trump.
Public dissatisfaction could play a major role in the outcome. An October Pew Research Center survey found that 77% of Americans were unhappy with the direction of the country.
A Reuters/Ipsos poll also put Trump's approval rating at 31%, its lowest level across his two presidential terms.
In his final scheduled campaign remarks, Trump said Republicans had given themselves "a very strong shot."
He has also acknowledged the possibility of losing congressional control, saying he could become "Mr. Veto" if Democrats win a majority.
Why do these elections matter?
The results will determine whether Trump can continue pursuing his legislative agenda with Republican majorities or face a Congress in which Democrats control one or both chambers.
A Democratic majority in the House could block Republican legislation, launch congressional investigations and increase oversight of the administration.
Control of the Senate would also affect the confirmation of presidential nominees, including federal judges and senior administration officials.
The first results are expected after polling places begin closing on Tuesday evening, although close races could take longer to resolve.