US President Barack Obama’s Democrats faced a day of reckoning yesterday as Americans voted in key elections likely to see Republicans seize control of the House of Representatives.

Amid a wave of anger at the faltering economy, Democrats also feared heavy losses in the Senate, in twin blows that could severely hamper President Obama’s ability to press ahead with his agenda of reform.

Analysts forecast, however, the Democrats would cling to a narrow majority in Senate, dividing power in Washington and setting the stage for a superheated political war ahead of Mr Obama’s 2012 re-election bid.

“This movement was never just about one election. It was about building a movement for change that endures,” Mr Obama said in an e-mail message sent to supporters early yesterday as part of a massive effort to get out the vote.

“Today, the country will make a choice about the direction we take in the years ahead. I need you to make sure your voice is heard.”

Election day kicked off early under sunny crisp fall skies, and after moving across several time zones was to wrap up after midnight (0400 GMT today) in remote Alaska and Hawaii.

Forecasters have predicted Republicans will pick up between 45 and 70 seats in the House, more than the 39 they need to gain a majority.