Story perspectives

Missouri Judge Blocks Referendum, Keeps House Districts for November

8/20/2026

Center

Judge Green Rejects Referendum

On August 20, 2026, a Missouri Circuit Court judge ruled the state's U.S. House districts will be used in November election, rejecting a referendum petition.
Judge Daniel Green said changing district lines after the primary would breach federal law.
About 59% of voters in the 5th District are new after the Kansas City shift.
Rick Brattin won the Republican primary, with Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver running unopposed.

Right

Judge Green Preserves

On August 20, 2026, Missouri Circuit Court Judge Daniel Green ruled the current U.S. House districts will be used in November, rejecting a referendum petition.
The decision preserves a Republican-friendly map that could give Missouri seven GOP representatives and one Democrat.
Judge Green said the constitution bars referendums, echoing Secretary of State Denny Hoskins’s position.
Case proceeds to Missouri Supreme Court, where five of seven judges were appointed by Republicans.

1 of 2

Judge Green Rejects Referendum

On August 20, 2026, a Missouri Circuit Court judge ruled the state's U.S. House districts will be used in November election, rejecting a referendum petition.
Judge Daniel Green said changing district lines after the primary would breach federal law.
About 59% of voters in the 5th District are new after the Kansas City shift.
Rick Brattin won the Republican primary, with Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver running unopposed.

1 / 2