Missouri's Congressional Map Update Sparks Controversy

Wed Dec 10 2025 00:12:52 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Opponents of Missouri's newly drawn congressional map gather over 300,000 signatures to push for a statewide referendum, potentially blocking its implementation ahead of the upcoming elections.

In a significant political move, opponents of Missouri's new congressional map submitted over 300,000 signatures demanding a statewide referendum. This comes as the map, supported by President Trump, is aimed at helping Republicans retain a slim majority in the House. The referendum process could delay the new districting until next year, complicating Republican efforts to gain a seat in a currently Democratic area. Legal battles continue as both sides prepare for a contentious fight leading up to the elections.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Opponents of Missouri’s new congressional map have turned in more than 300,000 petition signatures to call for a statewide referendum, substantially exceeding the 110,000 needed to suspend the new redistricting plan. Backed by President Trump, the map aims to secure a Republican majority in next year’s elections.

Secretary of State Denny Hoskins will verify the signatures, while asserting that the referendum might be unconstitutional. Should the signatures be validated, it could pose a critical challenge for the Republican party as they seek an edge in a predominantly Democratic district in the Kansas City area for the November election.

State law mandates that referendum votes occur in November unless the General Assembly schedules an earlier date starting this January. The ongoing redistricting battle highlights a broader national trend where Republican-led states respond to Trump’s call to reshape congressional maps, hoping to enhance their chances in the competitive electoral landscape.

Missouri's People Not Politicians group, which leads the referendum campaign, reported raising about $5 million from various organizations opposing the new map. Meanwhile, pro-redistricting groups aligned with Republicans counters this with their own fundraising efforts.

Challenges regarding the referendum's legality have ensued, with GOP-affiliated entities attempting to discourage signature collection and disputes over the legislative process entangling the unfolding scenario further. This marks a historical moment as it’s been a century since Missouri last held a referendum on congressional districting, highlighting the contentious nature of modern electoral politics.