JEFFERSON CITY, August 24, 2025 — Missouri is set to redraw its U.S. House map for the 2026 midterms, aiming to shift the state’s 6-2 Republican-Democrat split to a 7-1 GOP advantage. The move, spurred by President Donald Trump’s call for redistricting to secure Republican control, targets the Kansas City-based 5th District, held by Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver since 2005. Governor Mike Kehoe is expected to call a special legislative session soon, following pressure from the White House and Missouri’s Freedom Caucus, which demands a map reflecting the state’s conservative values.
The proposed redistricting would dilute Democratic votes in Cleaver’s district by splitting Kansas City and merging its neighborhoods with Republican-leaning areas. Republicans, holding veto-proof majorities in both chambers, face little procedural resistance, though Democrats vow to fight, with House Minority Leader Ashley Aune warning of legal challenges. Critics, including state Sen. Stephen Webber, decry the plan as a Trump-driven power grab, arguing it undermines voter choice. Supporters, like state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, insist a 7-1 map corrects a missed opportunity from 2022.
The redistricting aligns with a national GOP strategy, following Texas’ lead in flipping Democratic seats. However, experts warn that overly aggressive gerrymandering could backfire, creating competitive districts if voter sentiment shifts. Missouri’s move, while legal, risks court scrutiny for its partisan intent, especially after the state’s 2022 map was upheld. As the battle looms, the outcome could reshape Missouri’s congressional voice and influence the U.S. House’s balance of power.
