In a decision that will shape Missouri’s 2026 congressional races, Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green ruled Wednesday that the state’s constitutional referendum provisions do not apply to congressional redistricting enacted by the General Assembly. The ruling keeps the Republican‑drawn map in effect through the November midterm elections.
Judge’s reasoning and immediate impact
Judge Green found that Secretary of State Denny Hoskins’ refusal to certify a petition seeking a statewide referendum on the map was “lawful” under Missouri’s constitution. By entering judgment for Hoskins, the Republican‑led state officials, and the Missouri Republican State Committee, the court affirmed that the new congressional boundaries will remain “in full force and effect for the 2026 general election.”
Background of the redistricting fight
The map at issue was drawn by the Republican‑controlled Legislature after former President Donald Trump urged GOP‑led states to redraw congressional districts before the 2026 midterms. The new boundaries were designed to give Republicans a better chance of defeating Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who represents Kansas City’s 5th District. Under the revised lines, about 59% of voters in the reshaped district are new to it, according to an Associated Press estimate.
Republican state Sen. Rick Brattin won the GOP primary in the newly drawn district earlier this month, while Rep. Cleaver ran unopposed for the Democratic nomination. The map was already used in Missouri’s August primaries.
Opposition and petition effort
Opponents of the map gathered thousands of signatures in an effort to force a statewide referendum. Secretary Hoskins rejected the petition, arguing that Missouri’s constitution does not allow congressional redistricting to be placed on a referendum ballot. Judge Green’s ruling affirms that interpretation.
Broader context
Missouri’s redistricting battle is part of a larger national push by Republican‑led states to redraw congressional lines ahead of the 2026 midterms. Governor Mike Kehoe called a special legislative session last year after Trump’s call for states to act. Missouri follows Texas as the second Republican‑controlled state to adopt new congressional boundaries under that initiative.
The ruling now moves to the appeals court, where further challenges may be filed. The White House has not commented on the decision.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
