Missouri redistricting referendum ballot lawsuit

The United States — Supreme Court of the United States has urged expedited handling of a lawsuit that will determine whether a referendum on the Republican-drawn congressional redistricting map appears on the November ballot. Secretary of State Denny Hoskins blocked the referendum petition from People Not Politicians and declared a related constitutional amendment invalid, prompting lawsuits from both groups. The court's expedited review is necessary because state law prohibits ballot changes after September 8. If the referendum is placed on the ballot, it could trigger an expensive campaign and cast doubt on the results of the August 4 primary, particularly in the 5th Congressional District where Republican Rick Brattin and Democrat Emanuel Cleaver are competing. Republican committees have intervened to oppose the referendum, arguing it raises nonjusticiable political questions.