What We Know: Missouri’s new congressional map is now in the hands of the state Supreme Court, and a decision could come quickly.
The court heard arguments Tuesday over whether Missouri voters should get a say on the map in November.
What It Means: Gov. Mike Kehoe signed the new districts into law following a special legislative session last year.
Opponents then gathered signatures seeking a public vote. Secretary of State Denny Hoskins rejected that effort, saying the state constitution gives lawmakers the authority to draw congressional districts.
Attorney Chuck Hatfield, representing People Not Politicians, argued that Missourians have the right to a referendum on acts passed by the General Assembly.
The Republican National Committee is also involved in the case. Its attorney argued that changing the map after it was used for the August primary could create voter confusion.
Hoskins says his office will follow whatever the Supreme Court decides. Unless the court orders otherwise, he says the state plans to continue using the new congressional districts.
The case is getting national attention because the new map could help Republicans pick up an additional U.S. House seat.
What’s Next: The clock is also ticking. The court faces a September 8th deadline to finalize the November ballot.
The Missouri Supreme Court is also considering a separate case involving a proposed constitutional amendment.
That measure would, among other things, require an 80-percent vote in the Legislature before lawmakers could change certain laws approved by Missouri voters.
Hoskins rejected that petition as well, saying it violates the state constitution’s single-subject rule.
The group Respect Missouri Voters is challenging that decision in court.
(Photo provided by the Missouri State Supreme Court)