Missouri Joins Redistricting Rush: Trump-Backed Plan Splits Key Democratic Seat

Missouri is the latest state to redraw its voting map, with a plan requested by President Trump that would help Republicans hold onto their majority in the U.S. House. The Missouri Senate voted Friday for a redistricting plan that would split Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver's district and potentially give Republicans an advantage in the area. The plan now goes to Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe, who is expected to sign it. "This map reflects Missouri's conservative, common sense values," Kehoe said. However, Missouri Democrats have criticized the plan as a gerrymander that dilutes the votes of Black voters, especially around Kansas City. Two lawsuits have already been filed against the plan and a group is organizing a voter petition drive to block it. The redistricting process typically occurs at the start of each decade following the national census. However, Trump's involvement has set off a nationwide redistricting race. The goal for Republicans is to maintain their advantage in the U.S. House. Missouri Democrats argue that the plan unfairly splits Black voters into different districts, reducing their voting power. "This map is an attempt to silence and disenfranchise African American voters," said Missouri Democratic Party Chairman Steven Roberts. The redistricting process has been a contentious issue across the country, with multiple states involved in similar disputes. The outcome of these efforts could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress. In addition to Missouri, several other states are also engaged in redistricting battles. These include Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas. Each state's process is unique, but they all share a common goal: to redraw voting maps that will shape the electoral landscape for years to come. The current status of Missouri's plan remains uncertain as lawsuits and voter petition drives continue. The outcome of these efforts will be closely watched by both parties as they vie for control in the U.S. House. *Reporting by Npr.*