‘Brexit’ Referendum: 46 Million Eligible to Vote on Future in EU

Europe held its breath Thursday as the U.K. began voting in a national referendum on whether or not to quit the European Union, with the outcome predicted to be on a knife-edge after a months-long and bitterly divisive campaign.

 

Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. (2 a.m. ET) with a record-setting 46.5 million people registered to cast their ballot by 10 p.m. (5 p.m. ET) over what has been dubbed the “Brexit” question.

 

Early voters reported lines at polling stations despite torrential rain in London that caused localized floods, disrupting train services and blocking roads.

 

Opinion polls suggest the “Leave” campaign, which favors withdrawal from the EU, is virtually tied with those urging voters to “Remain” in the trading bloc.

 

Read More: ‘Brexit’ Referendum: 46 Million Eligible to Vote on Future in EU – NBC News