Missouri Plans Special Session to Redraw Congressional Map Favoring GOP

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has called a special legislative session to redraw the state’s congressional districts in an effort to secure an additional Republican seat in the U.S. House ahead of the 2026 midterms. This move, strongly encouraged by President Donald Trump, aims to split the Kansas City-based 5th District, currently held by Democrat Emanuel Cleaver, into multiple districts favoring Republicans, potentially shifting the delegation from six Republicans and two Democrats to seven Republicans and one Democrat. Republicans hold supermajorities in Missouri’s Legislature, facilitating the passage of the new map, though Democrats, including Rep. Cleaver, have condemned the redistricting as a gerrymandered, undemocratic power grab that silences voter representation. The special session will also consider reforms to Missouri’s initiative petition process, which some Republicans argue are necessary for voter clarity and legislative control. This mid-decade redistricting follows similar efforts in Texas and reflects President Trump’s broader strategy to bolster GOP control of the House by reshaping districts in key states. Critics suggest the push is motivated in part by Trump’s desire to prevent a Democratic House majority that might investigate sensitive issues, while supporters emphasize the need to maintain Republican legislative power.