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ATHENS, Greece - One of Europe's most entrenched Socialist establishments faces the judgment of voters today in crucial Parliament elections that could usher in a new and untested conservative government ahead of the Olympic Games.
The contest between the Socialists and the conservative New Democracy was expected to be decided by a tiny margin, though the opposition has maintained a steady lead in polls for months.
The winner will face a huge challenge: completing long-delayed projects for the Aug. 13-29 Olympics and making sure a $800-million security network for the games keeps pace with any threats.
Four years ago, the Socialists managed a 1 percent victory. This time, they have turned to former Foreign Minister George Papandreou, the son of the party founder, as their leader in an attempt to ride his popularity to a fourth straight term.
Costas Caramanlis was making his second bid for the premiership since taking over New Democracy in 1997.
The Socialists have governed Greece since 1981 except for a three-year break from 1990 to 1993, when New Democracy was in power. But the Socialists have been beset by allegations of corruption, patronage and claims they can't rein in Greece's hulking bureaucracy.
Greeks also have complained of rising prices and a declining standard of living since the country adopted the euro two years ago.
Much of Papandreou's popularity rests on his success at improving once-hostile relations with neighboring Turkey and his famous name. His father, the late Premier Andreas Papandreou, built the party into a powerhouse by doling out civil service jobs and appealing to Greek insecurities, especially toward U.S. policies in the region.
Papandreou's grandfather, also named George, was premier in center-left governments during the 1960s.
The Socialists' platform calls for expanded social welfare programs and higher pensions. Papandreou also has promised a leaner government, speedier privatizations of state enterprises and lower corporate taxes - policies that break with traditional Socialist ideology.
Caramanlis, 47, also is the scion of a Greek political dynasty. New Democracy was founded in 1974 by his uncle and namesake, former premier and president Constantine Caramanlis.
He also sticks to promises of smaller government, less bureaucracy and fewer taxes. Caramanlis also has pledged more money for social welfare, education and health.
Papandreou has criticized Caramanlis' lack of government experience as a cause for concern ahead of the Olympics.
The conservatives countered that Socialist mismanagement of Olympic preparations was responsible for years of delays.
With the Olympics only five months away, there are worries that many Olympic projects, including a roof for the main Olympic stadium and a key transportation link, might not be finished in time.
About 70,000 Greeks living abroad were expected to fly home and vote. About 8,000 voters were expected to arrive from Cyprus.