Missouri Judge Schedules Trials Over Disputed November Ballot Measures

Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green has scheduled trials for next Tuesday to determine if two contested ballot measures will appear on Missouri's November 3 election. The first is a referendum submitted by People Not Politicians to overturn a 2025 congressional redistricting map. The second is a constitutional amendment proposed by Respect MO Voters intended to limit the legislature's ability to alter laws passed by initiative.

Secretary of State Denny Hoskins blocked both measures on August 4, arguing the redistricting referendum is unconstitutional and the amendment covers too many subjects. The redistricting case is particularly contentious as it involves the 5th Congressional District, where Republican State Sen. Rick Brattin and Democratic U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver are competing. Judge Green granted the Republican National Committee, the National Republican Congressional Committee, and the Missouri Republican State Committee permission to intervene in that case to defend the 2025 map.

Chief Justice William Brent Powell of the Missouri Supreme Court has urged a swift resolution to the proceedings. Powell requested an expedited process to ensure sufficient time for appellate review before the September 8 legal deadline for adding measures to the ballot.