Missouri Governor Kehoe Calls Special Session on Congressional Redistricting

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has called a special legislative session to redraw the state's congressional districts and reform the initiative petition process, a move aligned with efforts by Republicans nationwide to secure more seats in the U.S. House of Representatives ahead of the 2026 elections. Kehoe's proposed 'Missouri First' map aims to reduce the Democratic-leaning Kansas City area's influence by splitting its 5th Congressional District and extending it into more rural areas, potentially increasing Republican representation from six to seven seats out of eight. The special session has drawn sharp criticism from Missouri Democrats, who accuse Kehoe of acting as a puppet for President Donald Trump and attempting to rig electoral maps to benefit Republicans, with some likening the maneuver to a threat against Missouri democracy. President Trump has publicly supported Missouri's redistricting efforts on his social media platform, emphasizing the state's importance in maintaining a Republican majority. The initiative petition reform, also on the session's agenda, seeks to impose stricter standards on statewide ballot initiatives, a Republican priority that has faced obstacles in regular legislative sessions. This redistricting effort reflects a broader national battle between Republicans and Democrats over congressional control, with similar actions taking place in states like Texas and California.