AMERICAN expats living in Oxford lined up to cast their ballots for a Democratic candidate in the US election. 

One of them Larry Sanders - the older brother of candidate Bernie Sanders - was surrounded by a young crowd of cheering supporters as he walked into the Rothermere American Institute on South Parks Road to vote.

Girdled by a flock of reporters Larry Sanders, who is the health spokesperson of the Green Party, spoke candidly about 'Bernard' as he calls his brother.

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When interviewed by the Oxford Mail, the former Green Party candidate for the Witney by-election in 2016 explained a Sanders win will be a huge success for Oxfordshire residents.

He explained: "The American presidency has a great impact around the world and I think particularly this time when the alternatives are so bad.

"I think a victory for Bernard will cheer people up here in Oxford and around the world, and I think we have a better chance for peace with him in the White House."

Mr Sanders laughed off any suggestions that he might follow into his younger brother's footsteps and try his chance in local politics again. 

He said: "I think I am done with my electoral attempts."

While most Americans who visited the voting booth were gladly pinning Bernie Sanders badges on their coats, one Oxford University student Heather Munro confirmed she was rooting for former Vice President Joe Biden, who won the popular vote in South Carolina yesterday.

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Ms Munro, who has resided in Oxfordshire for more than five years, explained her decision: "A large percentage of my family live in Vermont where Bernie Sanders is a senator and they will vote for him in the primary. 

"But he does not have a hugely successful track in Washington in getting things done.

"He has been in politics for 23 years and he has not achieved much, he has not got things done and gotten bills through. 

"He has beautiful ideas but he does not have a good ability to build a report with people of all backgrounds."

The university student, however, said she would support him in the election should he win the Democratic nomination.

Americans residing in Oxfordshire can cast their ballots at the Rothermere American Institute until 8pm today.

Alternatively, they can also do it on Saturday, March 7 at Jesus College on Turl Street from 10am until 2pm.