WASHINGTON — More than 52 million Americans have cast ballots ahead of the November 3 congressional midterm elections, according to a November 1 Reuters report, a record level for a midterm election at this stage.

All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats are on the ballot this year. The outcome will determine whether Republicans retain control of both chambers or whether Democrats take one or both.

The final campaign weekend has brought rallies, appeals to voters in competitive states and disputes involving election procedures. Analysts caution that early-vote totals alone do not predict which candidates will win.

St. Charles County residents have their own final early-voting opportunity Monday, November 2, at the Election Authority in St. Peters. Local readers should consult the county's official election website for their polling places and ballot details.