AUSTIN, Texas — Opening arguments are set to begin in the long delayed trial of former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, who's accused of helping to illegally finance Texas legislative races in 2002.
The once powerful but polarizing Republican is expected in an Austin courtroom Monday as prosecutors and defense attorneys lay out their cases.
DeLay and two associates are accused of funneling $190,000 in corporate money through a national group to help elect Republican state legislative candidates in Texas. Under state law, corporate money cannot be directly used for political campaigns.
DeLay is charged with money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted, he could face up to life in prison. Delay has long denied any wrongdoing.
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