Congressman goes on trial for corruption

CLEVELAND -- Rep. James A. Traficant Jr., the congressman known for his scorched-earth rhetoric and arm-waving theatrics, went on trial on corruption charges Tuesday, defending himself without the benefit of a law degree.

"I'm like a mouse looking up at an elephant asking the elephant to surrender, quite frankly," the nine-term Democrat told ABC's "Good Morning America" before entering the federal courthouse.

U.S. District Judge Lesley Wells warned Traficant to behave inside the court and out.

As jury selection got under way, Traficant immediately objected to the closed-circuit television that allowed the public and media to watch from another room. The television did not show "the ambiance" of the trial, said Traficant, who is known for yelling "Beam me up!" on the House floor.

He also objected to a requirement that a non-attorney he wants to take notes for him be seated at the defense table.

The judge stood by the arrangements, saying, "That's the way we do it."

10 charges

Traficant, 60, is accused of accepting gifts and favors in exchange for lobbying in Washington. He is also charged with forcing his staff to make cash kickbacks to him.

The 10 charges of racketeering, bribery and other offenses carry a maximum of 63 years in prison and $2.2 million in fines. Traficant would not automatically lose his congressional seat, but the House could vote to expel him.

Traficant has angered members of his own party for years by voting with Republicans on many bills and helping to elect Republican Dennis Hastert as speaker. He is the only House member without a committee assignment.