Cardiologist: John Edwards Has Life-Threatening Heart Condition

A federal judge says she has two letters from a cardiologist saying John Edwards has a life-threatening condition that will require surgery in February. The letters were revealed during a hearing today to consider whether the 58-year-old would go on trial later this month for alleged campaign finance violations. Attorneys for Edwards were seeking a 60-day delay to allow time for Edwards to recover. The judge delayed the trial to March 26.

Edwards was in court at the judge's request, although doctors advised him to avoid travel and all court proceedings. Prosecutors say they're 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 While House run. (More John Edwards stories.)