Summary
Opponents of Missouri's new congressional map, supported by President Donald Trump, have collected more than 300,000 signatures to potentially force a public vote on the redistricting plan. The signatures need to be verified, and if approved, a referendum could occur during the November elections, affecting Republican plans to gain a seat. The redistricting process is part of a larger political strategy led by President Trump to maintain a Republican majority in Congress.
Key Facts
- Over 300,000 signatures were submitted to challenge Missouri's new congressional map.
- Only about 110,000 verified signatures are needed for a statewide referendum.
- The referendum could prevent the new districts from taking effect until public voting in November.
- Republican leaders aim to gain a Kansas City area seat through the new districts.
- Redistricting usually happens every ten years, but unusual mid-decade changes are occurring.
- President Trump encourages Republican-led states to reshape voting districts to maintain control.
- Missouri's referendum campaign group claims $5 million in funding, mainly from out-of-state sources.
- National Republican-aligned groups have raised over $2 million to support the new map.
