Missouri Supreme Court Blocks Congressional Map Ahead of Midterms

The Missouri Supreme Court has unanimously blocked a congressional map backed by President Donald Trump, restoring the state’s previous districts ahead of the November midterm elections. The ruling, issued on Thursday, is expected to be appealed by Republican officials. The case centers on a congressional map signed into law in September 2025, which was intended to help Republicans gain an additional seat in the US House of Representatives. The map faced significant opposition, leading nearly 300,000 Missouri residents to sign a petition to put it to a vote. Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins rejected the petition, prompting the legal challenge that resulted in the Supreme Court's decision. The court stated, "The referendum petition was legal, sufficient, and timely, and the secretary incorrectly concluded otherwise," emphasizing that the Missouri Constitution allows such petitions. The court, composed of seven judges, five of whom were appointed by Republicans, ruled that the 2025 map could not be used in the upcoming midterm elections or any future elections until it is approved by Missouri voters. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced plans to appeal the ruling to the US Supreme Court, describing the decision as a "full-fledged constitutional crisis." Trump criticized the ruling on social media, calling it "horrible, ridiculous, and unConstitutional." The group People Not Politicians, which led the petition campaign, expressed support for the court's decision, stating that Missourians will have the opportunity to vote on the map. The legal battle is particularly significant for Missouri’s 5th congressional district, currently held by Democrat Emanuel Cleaver, which has been redrawn to favor Republicans.