Donald Trump's Gerrymandering Job Is Putting A Bullseye On Emanuel Cleaver

Hundreds of organizers gathered earlier this week in protest on the steps of the Capitol in Jefferson City, Mo. The Missouri Senate recently voted to redraw a district map that could undermine Black voting power in Kansas City and throughout Missouri. This revision now awaits Governor Mike Kehoe's endorsement, following a special session initiated by President Trump’s directive to alter the congressional map.Typically, redistricting happens every ten years post-U.S. Census to reflect demographic changes and maintain population equity across districts, as mandated by the U.S. Constitution. However, mid-decade adjustments are non-essential and can lead to gerrymandering, aiming to influence electoral outcomes.The revised map notably impacts District 5, represented by Democratic Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, where Black voters comprise 22% of its 750,000 residents. Critics argue that this manipulation violates both the Missouri Constitution and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, diminishing Black electoral strength. Other states, including Texas and California, are also advancing similar partisan gerrymandering efforts. (Photo: KC Defender)