Missouri court blocks Trump-backed U.S. House map, orders it to be put to vote
The Missouri Supreme Court has blocked new congressional district maps backed by Donald Trump, ruling that they must be put to a statewide vote. The court determined that a referendum petition submitted by opponents was legal, effectively pausing the implementation of the new boundaries for the November 2026 election.
Why it matters
The ruling impacts the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives and highlights ongoing legal battles over redistricting and voter referendums.
The Missouri Supreme Court has unanimously blocked new congressional districts backed by President Donald Trump from being used in the November election and ordered a statewide vote on whether to uphold or reject the new map.
The decision on Thursday (September 3, 2026) marks a rare setback for Republicans in a national redistricting battle that Mr. Trump urged GOP-run states to launch last year. Republicans had hoped Missouri's new congressional boundaries could help them win an additional seat and hold onto their slim House majority in the midterms.
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