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Missouri Sues Census Bureau Over Illegal Immigrant Count

1/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Missouri's federal lawsuit, led by Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, challenges the Census Bureau's counting of illegal immigrants and visa holders, arguing it dilutes U.S. citizens' votes and boosts representation for blue states.
The suit states Missouri lost a congressional seat after the 2020 census because of this counting method.
Missouri seeks a redo of the 2020 population count excluding illegal immigrants.
The filing comes as the 2026 midterm elections approach, reflecting GOP concerns about representation and redistricting, while the Supreme Court has previously avoided ruling on similar challenges.

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Story summary

Missouri's federal lawsuit, led by Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, challenges the Census Bureau's counting of illegal immigrants and visa holders, arguing it dilutes U.S. citizens' votes and boosts representation for blue states.
The suit states Missouri lost a congressional seat after the 2020 census because of this counting method.
Missouri seeks a redo of the 2020 population count excluding illegal immigrants.
The filing comes as the 2026 midterm elections approach, reflecting GOP concerns about representation and redistricting, while the Supreme Court has previously avoided ruling on similar challenges.