Caracas  - Voting in Venezuelan regional elections, viewed by many as a key test of support for President Hugo Chavez and his policies, started early Sunday.

Long lines had already begun to form before 6 am (1030 GMT) at voting stations in Caracas and other cities in this South American country. About 17 million people are eligible to vote for 22 governors and more than 300 mayors.

Chavez, who has pushed a left-wing populist agenda since taking power in 1999, has campaigned heavily for his preferred candidates in this race, after losing a referendum to amend the country's constitution in December 2007.

One of the amendments would have removed term limits for the president of Venezuela.

Chavez has said he hopes his candidates will win all 22 gubernatorial slots. But recent surveys show the opposition has good chances in at least four of those races. Results are expected late Sunday, local time. (dpa)