Sam Graves' District Could Include All of North Missouri

Two different redistricting plans that are in the Missouri Legislature could see Congressman Sam Graves representing all of North Missouri as opposed to the northwest corner of the state, which has been the historical territory of the district. It would still include most of the historic district as well as a section of Jackson County, which consists of Kansas City. Graves' new territory would solidify his hold on the district as the northeast corner of the state has been reliably Republican. It would include places like Kirksville as well as Hannibal.

Every ten years, all states must redistrict to take into account population changes uncovered by the decennial census. During this census, Missouri lost one congressional district, which means that one congressman would lose their district. The legislature, by law, must complete redistricting in time for Congressional candidates to file for election in 2012.