KANSAS CITY, Mo. — These days, Leann Villaluz spends a lot of time knocking on doors in Kansas City, hoping to gather signatures for a petition. This petition aims to let voters decide the future of Missouri’s new congressional map.
Villaluz feels frustrated. “It’s like we’re picking up the slack for our elected officials,” she says. Many voters feel they aren’t being heard. Villaluz is part of a group called People Not Politicians Missouri, which is leading the charge to overturn the new map. They argue that it unfairly benefits Republicans and dilutes the power of regular voters.
Missouri recently joined Texas in a political trend that followed President Trump’s push for favorable redistricting ahead of the 2026 midterms. Other states like North Carolina and Ohio are also considering similar measures. In contrast, California is trying to implement a plan that could favor Democrats if voters support it in an upcoming amendment.
The new Missouri map, signed into law by Republican Governor Mike Kehoe, changes the landscape of congressional representation in the state. It particularly targets Emanuel Cleaver II, Kansas City’s longtime Democratic representative.
Villaluz volunteers with about 3,000 others, racing against time to collect over 106,000 signatures by December 11. They’ve reportedly gathered over 100,000 already. If successful, this effort would put a referendum on the 2026 ballot, allowing voters to approve or reject the controversial map.
While Villaluz encounters many excited supporters during her outreach, the group faces pushback. Missouri’s Attorney General, Catherine Hanaway, has filed a lawsuit claiming that any referendum would violate U.S. and Missouri constitutions. On the other hand, Secretary of State Denny Hoskins recently approved the group’s petition but asserts that signatures collected before his approval date are invalid.
Villaluz remains undeterred. “People want their votes to count,” she insists. “No one wants their power diluted by these new maps.”
The drama isn’t just limited to the legal front. Villaluz’s efforts resonate with many voters who feel their voices are being ignored. A report from the Pew Research Center indicates that nearly 77% of Americans believe their voting power has diminished over the years due to gerrymandering.
The fight over Missouri’s congressional map illustrates a broader national issue. For example, Rebeca Amezcua-Hogan, a Kansas City Council candidate, is also gathering signatures. “For issues that matter to my community, representation is everything,” she says, aware that splitting Kansas City into multiple districts could reduce its bargaining power for federal resources.
Interestingly, while many Republicans support the map, some dissent. Around 15 Republicans voted against it, citing concerns that it does not represent the will of the people.
Villaluz’s campaign showcases a growing movement among voters tired of party politics overshadowing their needs. “Missouri isn’t just a testing ground,” she says. “People here are engaged and will not back down.”
As she continues her petition drive, Villaluz feels determined. “We’re giving everyone a chance to make their voices heard. This fight is about our representation.”
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