Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe announced a special legislative session to redraw the state's congressional districts, a move that could potentially add a Republican-friendly seat, enhancing GOP control. Set for Wednesday, this initiative places Missouri squarely in the national spotlight amid the contentious redistricting battles affecting the 2026 House control.

Currently, Missouri's congressional delegation consists of six Republicans and two Democrats. The proposed redistricting focuses on the Kansas City-area 5th Congressional District, currently held by Democrat Emanuel Cleaver, signaling a strategic shift likely to favor the Republican Party.

This redistricting effort aligns with former President Donald Trump's push for mid-decade redistricting in GOP-dominated states to solidify Republican dominance in the House. Trump highlighted Missouri's commitment to this strategy on his Truth Social platform, emphasizing the state's pivotal role in securing a Republican victory in the upcoming midterms.

Missouri's Republican supermajorities in both legislative chambers virtually guarantee passage of the proposed maps, despite potential Democratic resistance. This scenario mirrors actions in Texas, where Democrats attempted to block similar GOP-led redistricting efforts by fleeing the state, albeit temporarily.

The national strategy by Republicans aims to replicate Missouri and Texas's redistricting efforts in other GOP-controlled states. Trump and Vice President JD Vance have intensified their lobbying for redistricting in states like Indiana and Ohio, which could see significant gains in Republican seats.

On the flip side, Democrats, led by figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom, are seeking to counterbalance by creating new Democratic-leaning districts. However, with Republicans controlling both the governorship and state legislatures in 23 states compared to the Democrats' 15, the GOP holds a distinct advantage in the redistricting arena.

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin criticized Missouri's redistricting plan, accusing Governor Kehoe of undermining voter voices in the state. Martin's statement underscored the tension surrounding these strategic moves, portraying them as a direct challenge to voter representation and democracy.

As the special session approaches, all eyes are on Missouri, a state that has become a key battleground in the larger national contest for future congressional control. The outcome could significantly influence the political landscape leading up to the 2026 elections, setting a precedent for other states contemplating mid-decade redistricting.