Missouri Voting Advocates File Lawsuit Over Redistricting Referendum Rejection

Voting advocates in Missouri filed a lawsuit on August 5, 2026, seeking to place a redistricting referendum on the November ballot. This action follows the rejection of their referendum petition by Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, who stated that the referendum was unconstitutional and that voters do not have the authority to challenge legislative redistricting plans. The group People Not Politicians, which is leading the referendum effort, argues that the legal challenge should be expedited to the Missouri Supreme Court before the September 8 deadline for ballot changes. Richard von Glahn, the executive director of People Not Politicians, criticized Hoskins' decision as an obstruction to the will of the people and expressed confidence that the referendum will ultimately be certified for the ballot. The referendum effort has garnered over 300,000 signatures, surpassing the required amount, and local election officials have verified enough signatures for it to qualify. Missouri Democrats have criticized Hoskins for his handling of the situation, stating that it is his responsibility to validate signatures rather than determine the constitutionality of laws.