A newly released poll shows Americans may be ready to change the political party in control of Congress.

An Associated Press / Ipsos poll released Friday found that 49 percent of those surveyed would like to see opposition Democrats in control of Congress while 36 percent favored the ruling Republicans.

Midterm elections will not be held until November.

Tom DeLay

Inside the House of Representatives, a petition has begun circulating among Republicans calling for the election of new party leadership.

Former House Leader Tom Delay relinquished his leadership position in Congress when he was indicted on money-laundering charges but said he would reclaim the post when he clears himself of the charges.

Republican house members say recent reports of Mr. Delay's association with a disgraced lobbyist make his timely return to leadership unlikely.

Some information for this report was provided by AP and Reuters.