Trump-Backed Redistricting Reshapes Multiple States Ahead of 2026

Republicans are mounting a nationwide redistricting push that is already producing gains: Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signed the Trump‑backed “Missouri First” map, likely to flip Emanuel Cleaver’s seat and produce a 7–1 GOP House delegation in the state. Similar moves in Texas and a planned Ohio map would allow GOP lawmakers to net several additional seats — Ohio Republicans are poised to pass a plan expected to help them win 12 or 13 of the state’s 15 seats. North Carolina lawmakers, led by Senate leader Phil Berger, have floated redrawing districts this year (potentially by December), prompting accusations that the effort is partisan and could dilute minority voting power; Berger denies any deal‑for‑endorsement with Trump. Democrats have signaled countermoves, with California preparing a response and some blue‑state leaders such as Maryland’s Wes Moore telegraphing readiness to fight back. Political analysts warn these aggressive map changes could reshape House control ahead of the 2026 midterms and are likely to prompt legal challenges over gerrymandering and racial vote dilution.