Russians Vote as Putin Looks to Tighten Grip

MOSCOW—Russians headed to the polls in the final day of parliamentary elections that will determine whether President Vladimir Putin tightens his grip on the country or whether the opposition can challenge the dominance of a leader who is expected to remain in power for many years to come.

On the third day of voting, Russians will choose members of the lower house of the State Duma, where the ruling party, United Russia, currently has 334 of 450 seats. The party, which Mr. Putin founded but of which he is not a formal member, is widely expected to hold its large majority.