Jury selection begins in former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver's corruption trial

"At bottom, what the government objects to in this case is not actual federal crimes but rather longstanding features of New York state government that the USA attorney finds distasteful", Silver's lawyers wrote in court papers.

The upcoming trial of one of New York's most powerful politicians is expected to also put backroom deal-making and favors of state government under scrutiny, with jurors asked to decide if a few longtime practices amount to corruption or mere politics.

Asked by Manhattan Federal Court Judge Valerie Caproni whether an offer to cut a deal had ever been extended to the 71-year-old Silver, Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Cohen said no - and "defense counsel has never asked for a plea offer".

Both Silver, the now-former Meeting speaker, & Skelos, the ex-Senate leader, stand trial this month on wide-ranging corruption charges in separate cases which have already turned Albany on its head.

Dean Skelos, former Senate majority leader, faces his own criminal trial on November 16.

Prosecutors say the second scheme allowed Silver to collect $700,000 in kickbacks by steering real estate developers with business before the legislature to another law firm that specializes in challenging tax assessments.

Following Silver's arrest, Columbia said it would dissolve the center and fire Taub, who has challenged his termination in a lawsuit. Former Assembly member Carl Heastie took over soon after.

Silver has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

But his arguments fell on deaf ears.

The case against Silver focuses on outside employment. Prosecutors contend the money was disguised as legal fees to Silver, who is an attorney.

One juror, Justin Krasner, of Manhattan, a children's book editor, said he knew Silver had been accused of having a few "dirty dealings throughout his career".