Romanian gov't expected to win bitter elections

BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) - Romanians braved snow and heavy rain on Sunday to vote in a parliamentary election expected to return the government to power, a result that could inflame the personal rivalry between the nation's top two officials and bring yet more political upheaval.

Authorities were asking the army and the defense ministry to help clear roads closed by blizzards, and some 250 polling stations were prevented from opening on time, officials said. Though early turnout was low in some areas, it was unclear what kind of effect that might have on the vote.

Many Romanians are fed up with the power struggle between the country's top two leaders, especially as the country remains one of the poorest and most corrupt members of the European Union. Romania is enduring deep austerity cuts in return for a Euro 20 million (S$31.5 million) bailout to help its foundering economy.

Prime Minister Victor Ponta's coalition is expected to win a majority, but his battle with President Traian Basescu threatens to throw the country into a political standoff no matter the outcome.