Missouri GOP Advances Mid-Decade Congressional Map Boosting 2026 Supermajority

Missouri is undertaking a mid-decade redistricting effort led by Republican Governor Mike Kehoe, aiming to redraw U.S. House districts to increase GOP representation in Congress. The proposed 'Missouri First Map' seeks to secure a 7–1 Republican supermajority by dismantling Democratic-leaning districts, notably targeting Kansas City's 5th District by extending it into rural Republican areas. This move aligns with a broader national trend of partisan mid-decade redistricting, encouraged by President Donald Trump to enhance Republican chances in the 2026 midterms. Democrats have strongly criticized the plan, labeling it a partisan gerrymander designed to rig elections and undermine the ballot initiative process, while the NAACP has filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the special session called for the redistricting. Despite opposition, key Republican committees have approved the map, moving it closer to a full House vote. Governor Kehoe defends the effort as reflecting Missouri's conservative values and a necessary defense against liberal policies.