Voting in Venezuelan regional elections, viewed by many as a
key test of support for President Hugo Chavez and his policies, started early
Sunday.
Long lines had already begun to form before 6 am (1030 GMT) at voting stations
in Caracas and other cities in this South American country. About
17 million people are eligible to vote for 22 governors and more than 300
mayors, dpa reported.
Chavez, who has pushed a left-wing populist agenda since taking power in
1999, has campaigned heavily for his preferred candidates in this race, after
losing a referendum to amend the country's constitution in December 2007.
One of the amendments would have removed term limits for the president of
Venezuela.
Chavez has said he hopes his candidates will win all 22 gubernatorial slots.
But recent surveys show the opposition has good chances in at least four of
those races. Results are expected late Sunday, local time.
...