A federal judge in North Carolina has denied an attempt by John Edwards to get criminal charges against him dismissed, clearing the way for a trial to begin next year.
U.S. District Court Judge Catherine C. Eagles ruled Thursday in Greensboro that the federal government’s case against the former presidential candidate and U.S. senator can proceed.
Edwards’ lawyers argue that the prosecution’s case relies on completely novel legal arguments. But Eagles says it may be that the facts of the case itself are unique.
Edwards is charged with using campaign money to cover up an affair he had during his unsuccessful White House run and then submitting false campaign finance reports to cover his tracks. He has pleaded not guilty.
A trial is scheduled to begin next year.