U.S. District Court Judge Catherine C. Eagles released the four alternate jurors, who have garnered attention for their matching shirts last week. They wore shades of yellow, red and, on Wednesday, purple.
"This means you can go back to your lives," Eagles told the alternates. "Everyone in the courtroom will miss your cheerful faces and regret not knowing the color for tomorrow."
The alternate jurors appeared ecstatic they were going home, with one woman pumping her fist in apparent delight. Eagles cautioned the alternates not to discuss or read media reports about the trial in case they need to be recalled.
The jury of eight men and four women was scheduled to work an extra 30 minutes on Wednesday and Thursday - unless they finish first. Jurors will leave early on Friday due to jurors' family commitments like high school graduations.
On Tuesday, Eagles met behind closed doors with attorneys to talk about a problem with a juror, but it's still not clear what was discussed.
Edwards, 58, has pleaded not guilty to six charges involving nearly $1 million provided by two wealthy donors to help hide his pregnant mistress as he sought the White House in 2008. He faces 30 years in prison if convicted.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
