Kerry looks to confirm lead
White House hopeful John Kerry looks to confirm his front-runner status as two more states pick a Democrat challenger to President George W Bush.
The number of delegates pledged to vote for Mr Kerry in the party’s convention could nearly double if he achieves decisive wins.
One-time favourite Howard Dean says he will withdraw from the race if he does not win the Wisconsin ballot on 17 February.
Aides suggest Mr Kerry could win both the Saturday caucus gatherings and the Sunday poll of people in Maine.
His campaign was boosted on Friday when he received the backing of former party rival Dick Gephardt. Mr Gephardt’s close links with trade unions may help Mr Kerry in states such as Michigan, which has a strong industrial base and has suffered job losses.
High turnouts are predicted both in Washington and in Michigan. Caucuses opened in Michigan at 1000 (1500 GMT) and were due to close at 1600 (2100 GMT) Saturday. Results are expected later on Saturday.
The Massachusetts senator has won seven out of nine contests fought since the election race began last month.
