Every ten years, Missouri redraws congressional maps based on new census data. That’s the way it’s been for decades — to keep the process fair, consistent, and grounded in real population shifts.

Now, national political pressure is pushing Missouri lawmakers to derail it. Some want to carve up Kansas City’s 5th Congressional District — held by Rep. Emanuel Cleaver — to create another safe seat for one party, even though the map was set just a few years ago.

This isn’t about fair representation. It’s about tilting the playing field in the middle of the game. Experts warn such a move could be unconstitutional, spark lengthy lawsuits, and leave Missouri in judicial limbo. Even many Republicans once opposed this idea, citing the value of keeping Kansas City whole and geographically compact.

Redrawing maps mid-decade undermines public trust. It tells voters their communities can be split apart at any time for political gain. It also invites retaliation from the other party when the political winds change — a dangerous cycle that makes representation less stable for everyone.

Missourians deserve a democracy that works for all of us, not just for politicians looking to cling to power. We deserve to choose our leaders, not have our leaders choose their voters.

We call on Governor Mike Kehoe, House Speaker Jon Patterson, and Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin to reject any special session for mid-decade redistricting. Keep Missouri’s current congressional maps intact until the next census in 2030.

Our districts belong to the people, not to politicians. Let’s keep it that way.

Photo: Joshua Roberts / Reuters file