Ex-Ald. Edward Burke trial: Opening statements expected

Opening statements are expected to begin as soon as Thursday afternoon in the federal trial of ex-Ald. Edward Burke, the former City Council powerhouse accused of racketeering, bribery and attempted extortion.

First, however, attorneys must finish selecting a jury — a process that has so far been slower than anticipated.

A total of 54 potential jurors were questioned from Monday morning through Wednesday evening, with 38 making it through “for cause” strikes to the next round. Questioning was to resume Thursday morning, with the goal of getting at least nine more people through the first round. After that, attorneys can use their peremptory strikes to knock out a set number of jurors without having to give a reason.

[ Timeline: Edward Burke, once Chicago’s longest-serving alderman, faces a federal trial ]

Once a jury of 12 regular members and four alternates is empaneled, opening statements will being begin, likely sometime after a lunch break.

After the judge dismissed the…