Every ten years a new census is taken, causing a domino effect in the political world. When new population numbers are finalized, districts must be redrawn for state legislative seats as well as members of Congress. Every state has its own unique process for accomplishing this. In Missouri, legislative seats are drawn by two separate commissions chosen by the governor, while congressional districts are the responsibility of the legislature.
The process moved ahead this week when both the House and Senate redistricting committees passed out their respective maps for new congressional districts. This year has been more challenging due to Missouri losing one of its nine congressional seats. Since our population did not grow as fast as other states, our representation in Congress will be lessened. At our high water mark, Missouri had 16 seats in Congress. The last time we lost a seat was in 1980, when we lost a seat in Southeast Missouri.
When we lost that seat, two congressmen were drawn together setting up a showdown between incumbents. Congressman Wendell Bailey (R-Willow Springs) moved and ran in the 4th District against Congressman Ike Skelton (D-Lexington). Bailey was lost and two years later was elected state treasurer. Skelton served until last year when he was defeated by Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (R-Harrisonville). Later, in 1988, Bailey won reelection over Bob Holden who would go on to become governor.
This time it looks as though Congressmen Lacy Clay (D-St. Louis) and Russ Carnahan (D-St. Louis) might end up in the same district. This could change if Governor Nixon vetoes the map and the legislature doesn’t over ride him. If this happens, the process of drawing new districts will go to panel of judges. They will not be bound by any past considerations of the legislature.
Each district will change dramatically since the remaining eight districts must absorb the population of the eliminated district. Except for a district in St. Louis, most areas will likely be more competitive between political parties.
On a related topic, the Senate debated legislation this week which would reduce the number of legislators in the House of Representatives. With 163 seats, Missouri has the fourth largest House in the nation. Any change in this number would have to go to a vote of the people. If approved, House membership would drop to 103 seats. Supporters say it would save money while opponents argue it would further reduce representation in rural areas. This issue has been debated at various times since the 1990s and will likely attract much attention again this year.
As always, you may contact me at 573-751-1882, e-mail to chuck{dot}purgason{at}senate{dot}mo{dot}gov or write to me at State Capitol, Room 416, 201 West Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
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