KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Two of Kansas City’s most influential business advocacy groups are pushing back against President Donald Trump’s plan to gerrymander Missouri’s congressional districts, warning that the move would weaken the city’s political and economic influence.
The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City issued a joint statement Friday opposing any plan that would dismantle the 5th Congressional District, which includes Kansas City’s urban core and nearby suburbs.
“We urge elected officials from all parties to support the regular redistricting schedule and reject proposals that would allow unnecessary changes,” the groups said. “A strong, united congressional voice is critical to the future success and shared interests of the Kansas City region.”
Why Kansas City Leaders Are Concerned
The business groups stressed that keeping Kansas City unified under one congressional district is vital for securing federal funding, advancing bi-state cooperation, and sustaining long-term economic growth. They warned that splitting the district could weaken Kansas City’s representation in Washington and jeopardize ongoing regional initiatives.
Their opposition comes after Trump hinted on social media that Missouri would be the next target in his national redistricting effort, following a similar campaign in Texas.
The Push for Mid-Decade Redistricting
Trump’s political team has pressured Republican-led states to redraw congressional maps ahead of the 2026 election to strengthen the GOP’s narrow majority in the U.S. House. In Missouri, the likely proposal would carve up the Democratic-leaning 5th District, potentially ousting longtime U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Democrat representing Kansas City.
Cleaver and other local lawmakers have denounced the plan, calling it a “brazen and undemocratic power grab” aimed at diminishing Kansas City’s voting power.
“Any attempt to implement a mid-decade gerrymander that silences the legitimate voices of communities across Western Missouri will be met with a strong legal challenge,” Cleaver warned.
Growing Opposition Across the Region
Backlash against the proposal has been intensifying:
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Over 500 residents packed a Kansas City union hall this week to protest.
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Community leaders like Terrence Wise of Stand Up KC and Rev. Rodney Williams of Swope Parkway United Christian Church called the plan illegal and an attack on democracy.
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Phone calls, letters, and emails have flooded Governor Mike Kehoe’s office, with internal reports showing redistricting concerns ranked as the No. 1 “hot topic” among Missouri residents.
Governor Kehoe’s Role
Despite the mounting resistance, Gov. Mike Kehoe, a Republican who has expressed support for redrawing the maps, recently met privately with top state legislative leaders to discuss the plan.
“Our goal, if we move forward—and there’s no decision yet—is to make sure Missouri’s values are reflected in Washington, D.C.,” Kehoe told reporters.
While the Missouri legislature is currently out of session, Kehoe has the power to call a special session to advance the redistricting plan, which could align with the annual veto session on Sept. 10.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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