Missouri House Approves GOP-Drawn Map Seeking One Democratic Seat

Missouri Republicans, encouraged by President Donald Trump, have advanced a new congressional map designed to increase their U.S. House seats from six to seven out of eight, largely by redrawing Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver's Kansas City district to include more conservative rural areas. The "Missouri First" map passed the state House with Republican support and is expected to be approved by the Republican-controlled Senate before going to Governor Mike Kehoe for his signature. This mid-decade redistricting follows similar efforts in Texas, Ohio, and other GOP-led states targeting Democratic seats ahead of the 2026 midterms, aiming to maintain or expand Republican control in Congress. Democrats and some residents argue the map dilutes urban votes and breaks up communities, with Cleaver pledging legal challenges. While GOP lawmakers tout the map as more compact and representative, dissent exists even within the party, as seen in House Speaker Jon Patterson's opposition due to splitting Jackson County. The redistricting battle reflects a broader national struggle over congressional control and legislative agendas in President Trump's current term.