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With the protracted race for the Democratic nomination now in its 5th month, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton face crucial tests, as voters in Indiana and North Carolina began casting ballots in the latest Democratic primaries. Both White House hopefuls spent Monday frantically campaigning in both states -- hoping to win over some undecided voters. SOUNDBITE: Hillary Clinton, presidential candidate, saying: "We hope to do as well as we can but we started out from behind." SOUNDBITE: Barack Obama, presidential candidate, saying: "Its been a good day and I think theres going to be good turnout. People seem very enthusiastic." Enthusiastic for both candidates....large turnout in both states is expected throughout the day and into the early evening. SOUNDBITE: (English) Sloane White, Wilmington, North Carolina voter, saying: "I voted for Hillary Clinton. I voted for experience." SOUNDBITE: (English) Indianapolis voter David Dawson saying: "Shes a very good candidate. I just think Barack Obama is what America needs." Clinton has cut Obamas advantage in North Carolina to single digits in most polls over the past few weeks. The two run closer in Indiana, where Clinton has a slight edge. If Obama wins in both states, it would likely spark a fresh flood of calls for the New York senator and former first lady to step aside. Clinton victories in both states could fuel doubts about Obamas electability and persuade some superdelegates -- party insiders free to back any candidate at the nominating convention -- to move toward her. A split decision would leave the race largely unchanged heading to the last six contests....a scenario that will mean at least one more month of campaigning for both Democratic candidates. Jon Decker, Reuters.