Missouri Lawmakers Push Controversial Redistricting Plan Backed by Trump

Critics allege the plan is a partisan gerrymander that threatens voting rights and community representation

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A battle over voting rights and political representation is escalating in Missouri, as Republican lawmakers push forward with a controversial congressional redistricting plan backed by former President Donald Trump. The plan, which critics allege is a gerrymander designed to favor the GOP, has sparked a fierce backlash from Democrats and voting rights advocates, culminating in a citizen-led effort to put the issue to a statewide referendum.

Why it matters

The proposed map's impact on Kansas City is particularly contentious, as it would divide the city into three separate congressional districts, disrupting community cohesion and potentially diluting the political power of its residents. The situation in Missouri is part of a broader national trend, as President Trump continues to exert influence over redistricting efforts in several states, underscoring the high stakes involved in these battles over congressional maps.

The details

The conflict began last summer, following pressure from President Trump to redraw congressional boundaries in multiple states. Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe subsequently called a special session of the General Assembly, and after a brief but contentious debate, the Missouri House passed a map and a bill aimed at limiting the ability of citizens to amend the state constitution through ballot initiatives. The pairing of the redistricting map with the initiative petition reform is significant, as it bypasses the more inclusive, statewide process designed to gather input from residents and local officials.

  • In the summer of 2025, President Trump reportedly pressured Missouri to redraw congressional boundaries.
  • In September 2025, the Missouri Senate passed the Trump-backed redistricting plan.
  • Within 90 days, over 305,000 Missourians signed a petition calling for a referendum on the congressional map.

The players

Mike Kehoe

The Governor of Missouri who called a special session of the General Assembly to address the redistricting plan.

Denny Hoskins

The Missouri Secretary of State who has argued that the map is already in effect, despite the state constitution granting citizens the right to vote on such changes before they are enacted.

Catherine Hanaway

The Missouri Attorney General who has joined Secretary of State Hoskins in arguing that the map is already in effect.

Emanuel Cleaver II

The U.S. Representative who has represented Missouri's 5th Congressional District since 2005 and has criticized the proposed map for fragmenting Kansas City.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who reportedly pressured Missouri to redraw congressional boundaries in a way that would benefit the Republican Party.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.