Republicans, led by President Donald Trump, are escalating efforts to redraw congressional maps in Missouri to target a Democratic-held seat, aiming to gain an additional GOP House seat. This move is part of a broader national redistricting push to secure Republican advantages ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
**Who:** The key players include President Donald Trump, who is actively promoting the redistricting efforts through social media and public statements. Missouri Republicans, including Governor Mike Kehoe and state legislators, are considering drawing new maps. The target is Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who has held Missouri’s 5th congressional district for 11 terms. National figures like Adam Kincaid of the National Republican Redistricting Trust and Marina Jenkins of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee are also involved, representing partisan interests in this battle.
**What:** The news involves a Republican initiative to redraw Missouri’s congressional district lines mid-decade, specifically aiming to make the 5th district, currently held by a Democrat, more favorable to the GOP. This could potentially flip the seat and increase Republican representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. The effort is mirrored in other states like Texas, Ohio, Indiana, and South Carolina, creating a nationwide redistricting feud.
**When:** The developments occurred on August 21, 2025, with publications and statements emerging that day. Action is expected to intensify in September 2025, when Missouri lawmakers convene for a veto session that could include a special session to address redistricting. The timeline is urgent, with midterm elections in 2026 driving the pace.
**Where:** The primary focus is Missouri, particularly the Kansas City area, which encompasses the 5th congressional district. However, the redistricting fights are spreading to multiple states, including Texas, where similar efforts are underway, and California, where Democrats are countering with their own maps. The national scope highlights the partisan nature of this issue.
**Why:** The motivation behind this redistricting push is to preserve or expand the GOP’s narrow majority in the U.S. House of Representatives. Republicans hold a slim margin, and gaining additional seats through favorable map changes could secure their control during President Trump’s second term and influence the 2026 midterms. It’s a strategic move to counteract Democratic strengths in certain regions.
**How:** Republicans are leveraging their control of state governments—Missouri has a GOP supermajority in the legislature—to propose and pass new congressional maps without voter approval in some cases. This involves drafting maps, possibly with input from national organizations, and holding special sessions. The process may face legal challenges, as Democrats vow to use litigation to oppose changes they view as gerrymandering.
**Impact:** If successful, this could shift Missouri’s congressional delegation from 6-2 Republican-Democrat to 7-1, altering representation for thousands of voters. It may also set a precedent for mid-decade redistricting in other states, escalating partisan tensions. The move has sparked outcry from Democrats and advocacy groups, who argue it undermines democratic principles and could lead to prolonged court battles.
**What’s Next:** Expect a special session in Missouri in September 2025 to finalize and vote on new maps. Legal challenges are likely, with Rep. Cleaver and Democratic organizations preparing lawsuits. Additionally, similar redistricting efforts may emerge in other GOP-controlled states, while Democrats in states like California are advancing countermeasures. The outcome will significantly influence the 2026 election landscape and beyond.