Missouri Republicans Approve New Congressional Map Favoring GOP

Missouri Republicans sent a new congressional map to Governor Mike Kehoe on Friday that is expected to give the GOP a stronger hold in the deep-red state. The map, passed by the Senate in a 21-11 vote after House approval earlier in the week, is projected to shift Missouri’s congressional delegation from a 6-2 GOP advantage to a 7-1 split.

Former President Donald Trump praised the move, calling the map “fairer” and a step toward electing another “MAGA Republican” in 2026. “It is wonderful to see Republicans in the ‘Show Me State’ standing up to Save our Country,” he wrote on Truth Social. Trump’s endorsement was seen as boosting support for the plan within Missouri’s GOP leadership.

Republican lawmakers argue that the new map corrects long-standing issues. Sen. Nick Schroer criticized the current districting for creating a safe seat for Democrat Rep. Emanuel Cleaver in Kansas City. He noted that the revised map keeps counties like St. Charles and Warren intact, making the layout more compact and increasing competitiveness in certain districts.

Democrats, however, accused Trump of meddling in state-level politics. Still, Missouri Republicans welcomed his involvement. “It’s been absolutely refreshing to have a president that is so involved,” said Rep. Holly Jones. Rep. Justin Sparks echoed the sentiment, calling Trump’s collaboration with state legislatures “very effective.”

The redistricting in Missouri is part of a broader national trend. Analysts warn that population shifts and reapportionment after the 2030 Census could shift congressional power. States like California and New York may lose seats, while GOP-leaning states like Texas and Florida gain influence—potentially limiting Democrats’ routes to the White House by 2032.