Some black lawmakers concerned about Clean Missouri

Republicans pushing a repeal of Missouri’s new redistricting process are finding unusual allies in some black Democrats in the Legislature, who are concerned the new districts might disenfranchise black voters.

The argument concerns a constitutional amendment called Clean Missouri that voters approved last year. It changes the way state legislative districts will be redrawn after the 2020 census. An Associated Press analysis last year found the new plan will likely improve Democrats’ chances of winning more seats in the Legislature.

Clean Missouri is strongly supported by many Democrats. But some members of the Legislative Black Caucus say they worry the change could create new districts that dilute the black vote.

The Kansas City Star reports Republicans are seizing on the division in the Democratic party to support repealing Clean Missouri.

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