WASHINGTON - PRESIDENT George W. Bush urged Americans to cast ballots for a new president and Congress this coming Tuesday, in his final weekly radio address before his successor is chosen.

'This Tuesday is election day. After months of spirited debate and vigorous campaigning, the time has come for Americans to make important decisions about our nation's future,' Mr Bush said in his weekly radio address on Saturday.

'I encourage all Americans to go to the polls and vote.'

Americans on Nov 4 will choose their 44th president, a new House of Representatives, about a third of the Senate and several new governors, amid deep concern about the economy and uncertainty over wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Both Republican John McCain and Democrat Barack Obama have promised a sharp departure from the Bush presidency if they win the keys to the White House. -- AFP