Countdown Begins for U.S. Elections

Polls ahead of congressional and gubernatorial elections next week continue to show the Republican Party poised to make big gains. 

A public opinion poll from the Gallup research organization indicates Republicans remain in position to seize control of the House of Representatives from Democrats, who now have majorities in both the House and Senate. Republicans need to gain 10 seats to win a majority in the Senate, but most analysts believe they will fall short.

Election activity has surged in the past few days with both major parties trying to motivate their supporters to vote.

U.S. President Barack Obama campaigned in the northeastern state of Rhode Island on Monday, while first lady Michelle Obama campaigned in the city of San Francisco with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The president will resume campaigning for Democratic candidates later in the week.

All 435 seats in the House of Representatives are at stake, plus 37 of the 100 U.S. Senate seats.