2025 Elections

Missouri Democrats have accused their GOP colleagues of kowtowing to President Donald Trump, who is pressuring Republican-led states to redraw their maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

A House Rules Committee on Friday backed the redistricting, clearing the way for debate early next week.

A vote in the full state House of Representatives could come as early as Monday. The changes also would need the approval of the Senate and voters to take effect.

The move sets up the new map, which targets U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, D-Kansas City, for debate next week.

The ward, which includes Lafayette Square, Soulard and part of downtown, had been without representation since April, when Cara Spencer was sworn in as mayor.

The winner of Tuesday’s election will serve the remainder of Cara Spencer’s term, which ends in April 2027.

Tishaura Jones spent more than 20 years in local elected office before she lost her bid for a second term as St. Louis mayor to Cara Spencer.

On April 8, Ballwin voters elected its first Black alderwoman, Tequila Gray. Her overall goal is to improve neighborhood walkability and help the city’s BOA gain a better reputation with the community.

School boards in the Ferguson-Florissant and Riverview Garden school districts retain most incumbent leaders to bring stability as they navigate financial uncertainty.

The school board races signal a desire from voters to move past some of the culture war issues the districts have faced in recent years.