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      GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) — Ex-presidential candidate John Edwards
has a life-threatening heart condition that will require surgery
next month, his doctor told a judge presiding over Edwards'
upcoming court case over possible campaign violations.


      A cardiologist for the 58-year-old ex-North Carolina senator
wrote two letters about his condition to Judge Catherine Eagles,
who talked about them Friday during a hearing to consider whether
the trial would go on later this month. She delayed it until at
least March 26.


      Edwards walked into the courtroom in Greensboro without
assistance and appeared healthy. The judge requested that he be
there.


      The judge did not give any more details about what sort of
surgery or what illness Edwards may have. The doctor also wrote
that Edwards should avoid driving and travel, including to the
court proceedings.


      "The public has an interest in a speedy trial, and this case
has already been continued twice," Eagles said. "Ordinarily, I
would try to manage something like this. But clearly there are some
limitations on Mr. Edwards due to real and serious health issues."


      Prosecutors had said they were ready to try Edwards on six
felony and misdemeanor counts related to nearly $1 million from
wealthy donors used to help hide his pregnant mistress during his
2008 White House run.

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Politics and Government News

A federal judge says she has two letters
from a cardiologist saying ex-presidential candidate John Edwards
has a life-threatening condition that will require surgery in
February.

Judge: John Edwards has life-threatening condition

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