With 12 million early votes cast already, Barack Obama is leading 53% to McCain’s 34%, the Guardian reports.

“The long queues at early voting sites across the country seem to be benefiting the Democratic ticket. While the votes will not be counted until election day, the party registration statistics in key states anticipate an advantage for Obama.

“In North Carolina, for instance, registered Democrats have cast 55% of early ballots, compared with 28% for the Republicans and 17% with no party affiliation, according to McDonald’s analysis. In Florida, Democrats have cast 45% of early and absentee votes, compared with 40% for the Republicans and 15% other.”

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