Why Missouri's redistricting battle matters heading into the midterms

The Trump administration's proposed cuts to Medicaid and refusal to renew Affordable Care Act tax credit subsidies are projected to increase the number of uninsured Americans to approximately 31 million by 2027, with many others facing significant increases in health insurance costs.

President Trump is encountering growing dissent from Republicans in Congress regarding various aspects of his agenda as he approaches the conclusion of his first year back in office. This resistance highlights a potential shift within the party, as lawmakers express concerns over aligning too closely with Trump's controversial proposals.

Former President Trump declared himself 'THE AFFORDABILITY PRESIDENT' during a recent speech, asserting that his policies will aid Republicans in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. This statement comes despite his previous dismissal of affordability as a significant issue.

President Trump emphasized the reduction of drug prices during his administration, claiming that invoking favored nations status has led to unprecedented drops in costs, which he believes will resonate positively with voters in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, 47 congressional lawmakers, including 20 Democrats and 27 Republicans, have announced they will not seek reelection. This includes a mix of retirements and lawmakers pursuing different political opportunities, reflecting a significant shift in the current congressional landscape.

Maryland's governor has proposed a redistricting plan aimed at enhancing Democratic representation in Congress, a move that has faced opposition from some within his own party. The proposal comes as Maryland is recognized as a heavily Democratic state, which could leverage redistricting to counter Republican influence.

Virginia Democrats are considering a redistricting initiative that could significantly counter the Republican Party's influence and President Trump's efforts to reshape congressional maps. This move is seen as a strategic response to recent GOP successes in other states, particularly in North Carolina, where Republican-drawn maps have been approved to enhance their representation.

Republicans have introduced new legislation aimed at penalizing businesses that hire illegal immigrants, categorizing such hiring as an unfair labor practice. This legislation also targets labor unions that support the unionization of these workers, providing the federal government with additional enforcement tools.