Missouri SOS blocks statewide vote on gerrymandered map

Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, a Republican, refused to certify a ballot referendum to overturn the state’s gerrymandered congressional map, blocking a vote despite more than 300,000 signatures. He argued the Missouri Constitution does not authorize a referendum on congressional redistricting, signaling a likely legal battle as supporters vow to sue. The map, nicknamed Missouri First Map, was drawn last year to favor Republicans by splitting Kansas City into three districts.