Summary
Missouri lawmakers are holding a special session to redraw the state's U.S. House districts to improve Republicans' chances in upcoming elections, part of a broader effort encouraged by Donald Trump. This redistricting follows similar moves in states like Texas and California and could make Missouri's congressional delegation more Republican. The proposed changes may alter the political landscape by shifting district boundaries to favor Republican candidates.
Key Facts
- Missouri lawmakers are working to change U.S. House district maps.
- The special session was called by Missouri's Republican Governor Mike Kehoe.
- This redistricting aims to increase Republican seats in Congress.
- Missouri is the third state this cycle attempting mid-decade redistricting for partisan advantage.
- The proposed new map targets a Democratic-held district in Kansas City by extending it into Republican areas.
- The changes in Missouri could change six Republican and two Democratic seats to seven Republicans and one Democrat.
- Redistricting often involves gerrymandering, where district lines are drawn to benefit the controlling party.
- Democrats need to gain three U.S. House seats in the next elections to take control of the chamber.
