Make Me Smart Make Me Smart: St. Louis Edition
Oct 17, 2025
Join Jason Rosenbaum, a seasoned politics correspondent for St. Louis Public Radio, as he dives into the hot-button issues of Missouri's congressional map and voter-led initiatives. He sheds light on the surprising referendum landscape that threw Republicans for a loop. The discussion also covers the ongoing recovery efforts from the St. Louis tornado, revealing frustrations with FEMA's response. And for a fun twist, Jason and Kimberly debate the merits of St. Louis-style pizza. Tune in for a mix of local politics and culinary passion!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Redistricting Targets One Seat
- Missouri's new congressional map targets Emanuel Cleaver by splitting Kansas City into three largely rural districts to favor Republicans.
- The map's enactment is uncertain because a referendum process and legal challenges could delay or block it.
Referendum Threats Could Halt Map
- The redistricting bill lacked enough votes to take immediate effect, making it eligible for a voter referendum.
- Republican officials are already contesting signature validity and constitutionality, setting up court battles.
Ballot Initiatives Are Political Battlegrounds
- Voters previously used Missouri's initiative process to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution via Amendment 3.
- Republicans now plan a confusing repeal-and-ban measure linked to gender-affirming care for minors on the 2026 ballot.