Missouri Senate Approves GOP-Backed Redistricting Plan

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - Missouri has become the second state in the nation to pass a redistricting plan backed by President Donald Trump.

The state Senate voted 21 to 11 in favor of the redrawn congressional map, a rare mid-decade move that eliminates a seat Democrats have held for more than 75 years. Just last month, the Republican-led Texas legislature approved a similar redistricting plan expected to give the GOP five more seats in next year’s midterm elections.

Missouri Senator Mike Henderson shared his perspective on the issue.

Henderson added that he isn’t entirely comfortable with the timing of the change.

The new map, now headed to Governor Mike Kehoe, who is expected to sign it into law, reduces Democratic strength in Kansas City, while adding another U.S. House seat for Republicans to bolster the party’s slim majority. In response, Missouri Democrats immediately announced plans to launch a referendum petition that could place the new map before voters statewide.