A city judge on Wednesday refused to dismiss a suit challenging State Rep. Connie Johnson’s eligibility to run for Senate.

One of Johnson’s Democratic rivals, State Rep. Robin Wright-Jones, has sued to kick Johnson off the ballot, accusing her of living outside of the district.

In an hour-long hearing that had the feel of an election law seminar, Judge Mark Neill rejected a motion by Johnson’s attorney, Rufus Tate, to toss the case.

Tate argued unsuccessfully that, according to state election law, Johnson should have had a preliminary hearing no more than five days after the challenge was filed on April 22.

Neill rejected the pitch, saying his only deadline is May 27 - the day the August primary ballot must be certified by the Secretary of State.

The case is on track for bench trial in front of Neill on May 9.

Also Wednesday, Neill sought to clear the air of any potential conflicts. He disclosed that his brother, attorney Joseph Neill, was on the host committee of a March fundraiser for Wright-Jones. The event, held at the Soulard tavern McGurk’s, featured former State Supreme Court Chief Justice Ronnie White.

Judge Neill apparently did not think the connection was enough to recuse himself - or maybe it was just that the courthouse was running out of judges.

Court records indicate that two other city judges have already excused themselves from the politically-intense case.

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