President Chavez's Party wins 17 of the country’s 22 governorships

President Hugo Chavez's leftist Venezuela United Socialist Party (PSUV) won 17 of the country’s 22 governorships, as well as a majority of races in local elections held on 23 November 2008, according to initial election results. However, the opposition won key races in Miranda and Zulia, the country's two largest states, and also won control of the Caracas mayoralty. The opposition also won in the state of Carabobo, where Chavez had warned before the election of the possibility of using force if his candidate lost. Turnout was very high, forcing authorities to controversially extend voting hours. Following the announcement of the results, Chavez stated that he recognizes the outcome, including the opposition victories.