JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Following today’s passage of new congressional maps in the Missouri Legislature, State Representative Ray Reed released the following statement:
“Today, the Missouri Legislature approved new congressional maps in a process that left little room for debate, deliberation, or the voices of the people. But this moment is about more than a map. It’s about our democracy itself. We are, each of us, caretakers of an institution that is both precious and fragile. Our democracy is not self-sustaining, it is only as strong as the people demand it to be, and as enduring as the trust we build in it together. When decisions of great consequence are pushed through without openness or accountability, we risk chipping away at that trust. And once it is lost, it is difficult to regain.
That is why I remain committed to the good fight. Not for party, but for principle. To ensure that government belongs to the people, reflects their will, and is worthy of their faith. Because if we honor our responsibility as caretakers, I still believe we can leave behind a democracy stronger than the one we inherited.”
Representative Ray Reed proudly serves as the State Representative for Missouri’s 83rd House District, which includes vibrant communities across the St. Louis region, including Brentwood, Maplewood, Richmond Heights, Shrewsbury, and portions of Affton. He was elected to his first two-year term in November 2024. For more information, please contact Rep. Reed by phone at 573-751-2883 or email at Ray.Reed@House.Mo.Gov.