What We Know: Missouri’s effort to overturn the state’s new congressional map is now headed for another legal fight.
What It Means: Secretary of State Denny Hoskins announced Tuesday he will not certify a referendum that sought to repeal the Republican-backed congressional map approved by lawmakers last year. Hoskins says the referendum would be unconstitutional under both Missouri and federal law.
The proposed ballot measure was backed by the group People Not Politicians Missouri. The organization says it collected more than 300,000 petition signatures, well above the number required to qualify for a statewide vote. The group argues Missourians should have the chance to decide whether to keep or reject the new congressional districts.
Hoskins disagrees. He says state law does not allow congressional redistricting maps to be repealed through the referendum process. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway and Governor Mike Kehoe have also supported that position.
People Not Politicians Missouri says it plans to challenge Hoskins’ decision in court. The group’s executive director accused the secretary of state of blocking voters from having a voice on the issue.
The dispute comes as Missouri voters headed to the polls for this year’s primary election using the new congressional map. If the referendum had been certified, the map would have been suspended until voters decided the issue.
Hoskins said he’s hopeful the courts will uphold his decision. He also noted that if a judge rules against the state, lawmakers could redraw Missouri’s congressional districts again during a future legislative session.
What’s Next: The legal battle is expected to continue in the weeks ahead, with the courts likely deciding whether the referendum can move forward.
(Photo provided by Missouri Secretary of State, Mo.gov)