In a vote of 90-65, the Missouri House of Representatives approved a new Congressional map designed to benefit Republican candidates, potentially securing an additional seat for the party. The plan would reduce Democratic representation in the Missouri House to just one seat.

The redistricting effort aligns with broader adjustments in multiple states ahead of next year’s midterm elections. Missouri is the third state to advance such changes recently. Republican allies, including former President Donald Trump, are seeking to create more favorable districts in states where the GOP controls state governments. Similar efforts are underway in Ohio, Florida, Indiana, and South Carolina.

The proposal now moves to the State Senate, where it is anticipated to pass as early as tomorrow. Under the new boundaries, Republicans would hold seven of Missouri’s eight congressional districts, up from their current six seats. The map would split Kansas City’s core into districts with expansive rural areas.

State Representative Dirk Deaton, a Republican, defended the plan, stating it “comports with every legal standard and constitutional requirement.” He argued that revisiting district lines between censuses falls within the General Assembly’s authority.

The measure requires Senate approval before reaching Gov. Mike Kehoe, a Republican who initiated the special session to redraw boundaries. Missouri Democrats, weakened by years of electoral setbacks, face limited options to block the legislation. The State Senate could consider the bill as early as Wednesday.