Washington, October 23 (QNA) - Millions of American voters have flocked to polling stations across the United States to cast their ballots early in the congressional midterm elections, while others have submitted their ballots by mail, less than two weeks ahead of Election Day, scheduled for November 3.

Approximately 21 million voters had cast their ballots as of early Thursday, with more than 100 million voters expected to participate in this year's midterm elections.

The Republican Party is seeking to retain its majorities in Congress, while the Democratic Party is aiming to shift the balance of power in its favor. Democrats need to gain four additional seats in both the House of Representatives and the Senate to secure majorities in the two chambers.

The contests are particularly competitive in several states, including Maine, Ohio, North Carolina, Iowa and Georgia, which observers consider among the most consequential battlegrounds in this election cycle.

In addition to congressional races, the midterm elections will also determine the composition of state legislatures and the selection of governors in numerous states.

Domestic issues, particularly rising consumer goods and fuel prices, healthcare costs and immigration policies, are among the leading concerns shaping voters' priorities and influencing their electoral choices.

Midterm elections are held in the United States every two years, halfway through the president's four-year term.

They involve elections for all seats in the House of Representatives and approximately one-third of the seats in the Senate.

The elections carry particular significance, as their outcome could reshape the balance of power in Congress and, consequently, affect the US administration's ability to advance its legislative agenda during the second half of the presidential term. (QNA)