The Missouri Supreme Court has blocked a Republican-supported congressional map from being implemented in the November midterm elections. The court’s decision requires voter approval before it can be used. As a result, the previous congressional boundaries will remain for the 2026 general election. This decision is viewed as a setback for Republicans, who aimed to gain a seat in the U.S. House through the new map.
Former President Donald Trump criticized the ruling on Truth Social, labeling it a “Dark Day for ‘Justice’ in Missouri!” He described the decision as “horrible, ridiculous, and unConstitutional,” arguing it may disrupt the election process due to changes in districts so close to the midterms. This ruling adds Missouri to a broader national conflict over congressional maps as both parties strive to leverage redistricting for electoral advantage.
The map, endorsed by Trump and approved by Missouri Republicans, was intended to shift the state’s congressional delegation in favor of the GOP. It would have dismantled the district based in Kansas City, currently represented by Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver. Cleaver applauded the ruling, stating, “Democracy prevails.”
Judge Ginger Gooch elaborated in her court opinion, “This Court reverses the circuit court’s judgment. The referendum petition was legal, sufficient, and timely, and the secretary incorrectly concluded otherwise. HB 1 did not go into effect and will not go into effect unless and until approved by the voters. The congressional redistricting the General Assembly established in 2022 remains in full force and effect for the November 2026 general election.”
The ruling followed efforts by the group People Not Politicians, which gathered sufficient signatures for a referendum. Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, a Republican, initially rejected the petition, claiming the state constitution’s referendum provisions did not apply to congressional redistricting. The state Supreme Court disagreed, declaring the petition legal, sufficient, and timely. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway confirmed that Republicans plan to appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court.