Why It Matters
Voters in eastern Idaho will decide whether to retain a sitting judge on the 6th Judicial District bench. Judicial elections determine who interprets the law and presides over criminal and civil cases affecting local communities.
The 6th Judicial District covers Bannock, Bear Lake, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, and Power counties in southeastern Idaho.
What Happened
Judge Cody Brower is running for re-election to continue serving on the 6th Judicial District bench. He sat for an interview with local media to discuss his judicial philosophy and address questions about the court system.
During the interview, Brower explained his reasons for seeking to remain on the bench. He discussed his approach to plea agreements, common misconceptions about the legal system, and the role of cameras in courtrooms.
The interview was published by a local news outlet on May 12, 2026. Brower is running alongside Thompson, another judicial candidate in the district.
By The Numbers
The 6th Judicial District includes six counties in southeastern Idaho. Judicial retention elections allow voters to decide whether sitting judges should continue serving. Idaho uses a merit-based selection system where governors appoint judges to fill vacancies, then voters decide on retention in subsequent elections.
District judges in Idaho serve six-year terms. The 6th District handles thousands of cases annually, including criminal prosecutions, civil disputes, and family law matters.
Zoom Out
Idaho’s judicial retention system differs from contested elections in some other states. Judges appointed to fill vacancies must later face voters in retention elections. This approach aims to balance judicial independence with public accountability.
Judicial races in Idaho typically receive less attention than legislative or statewide contests, though local bar associations often provide ratings and recommendations. Voters in rural districts like the 6th frequently retain sitting judges unless specific concerns arise about their performance.
What’s Next
Voters in the six-county district will decide in the next election whether to retain Judge Brower. Judicial retention votes appear on general election ballots, with voters choosing yes or no on whether each judge should continue serving.
The interview provides voters with insight into Brower’s judicial approach and courtroom management philosophy as they prepare to make their decision.
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