Former presidential candidate and U.S. Sen. John Edwards, center, arrives outside federal court today with his daughter Cate, left, in Greensboro, N.C., for his trial on charges of violating federal campaign finance laws. Opening statements were to begin today. Edwards, 58, pleaded not guilty to six criminal counts related to nearly $1 million in secret payments from two wealthy supporters. Prosecutors are expected to argue that Edwards masterminded a conspiracy during his 2008 White House campaign to conceal his affair. Edwards’ lawyers contend the payments were gifts from friends intent on keeping the candidate’s wife from finding out about the mistress, Rielle Hunter, and her baby. Elizabeth Edwards died in December 2010 after battling cancer. U.S. District Court Judge Catherine C. Eagles, who was appointed in 2010 by President Barack Obama, will preside. She said she expects the proceedings to last about six weeks. (The Associated Press)