Missouri judge rules in favor of Republicans in redistricting battle

A Missouri judge ruled that a referendum cannot override the state legislature's authority to enact congressional maps. This decision favors Missouri Republicans, ensuring the use of a Republican-backed map for the upcoming November general election. The ruling prevents voters from challenging the redistricting process through a referendum, thereby preserving a map expected to influence the Kansas City-area congressional seat. This legal victory secures the current redistricting framework against challenges from voters seeking alternative map configurations.