The Nation - News from Nov. 14, 1985

Louisiana Gov. Edwin W. Edwards told a judge he does not want federal racketeering charges thrown out at this time, arguing that he wants to personally present his defense in front of the jury. “My co-defendants are ordinary citizens,” Edwards told U.S. District Judge Marcel Livaudais in New Orleans. “I, on the other hand, am the governor of the state of Louisiana. So, for me, there is more at stake.” Edwards and seven others are accused of using Edwards’ political influence to illegally obtain state certification for hospital and nursing home projects in which they held interests.