An historic election looms as term limits and redistricting create an unprecedented opportunity for Republicans to take control of the Missouri House for the first time in 48 years. Democrats control the House 87-to-75 with one vacancy. Term limits and other resignations have created 87 open seats this year. Missouri Democratic Party Executive Director Mike Kelly understands the loss of long-time incumbent Democrats leaves his party vulnerable in seats that once were secure. House Republican Leader Catherine Hanaway says that provides Republicans with an opportunity to pick up seats, but she also sees promise in how state representative districts have shifted. The Senate in Missouri is extremely tight with Republicans holding a one-vote margin. Of the 17 State Senate seats up for election, 12 are open.
