Huckleberries has learned from Councilman Mike Kennedy that Judge Charles Hosack has been appointed to take over the case and preside over any trial that might result from challenger Jim Brannon’s lawsuit. Hosack will replace Judge Benjamin Simpson, who stepped down from the case earlier this month w/o giving a reason.

Huckleberries has learned that Judge Benjamin Simpson has recused himself from Jim Brannon’s suit to overturn his 5-vote loss to Mike Kennedy in the 2009 City Council election. County Clerk Dan English said this morning that he’d received notice of Simpson’s decision Tuesday afternoon, confirming a tip that Huckleberries Online received. English said no reason was given for Simpson’s recusal. Now, it’s up to administrative Judge John Mitchell to appoint a new judge to hear the election challenge.

Question: Why do you think Simpson withdrew from the case?

Idaho Gov. Butch Otter today announced the appointment of Kootenai County Magistrate Benjamin Simpson to succeed 1st District Judge Charles Hosack, who is retiring at the end of the year.

Simpson, 60, is a Colorado native and U.S. Navy veteran who received his bachelor’s degree from California State University in Chico and his law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane. Read More.