Lines formed early at a Houston polling station as Democrats were hopeful of historic victories in the traditional Republican stronghold of Texas. (EPA Images pic)HOUSTON: Early voting began Monday in Texas, home to some of the most closely watched races in November's midterm elections, with Democrats hopeful for historic victories in the traditional Republican stronghold.

Lines formed early at a Houston polling station, as Texas voters weighed a choice between Democrats campaigning on economic concerns and Republicans aligned with US President Donald Trump.

In the governor's race, polls indicate a slight lead for Democrat Gina Hinojosa, a 52-year-old attorney who seeks to beat incumbent Greg Abbott, a 68-year-old Republican running for a fourth term.