Republicans are converging in Dallas for a national midterm convention, an event designed to galvanize support for the upcoming congressional races and boost the party's fundraising efforts. The convention, nicknamed "Trump-a-Palooza," is heavily headlined by former President Trump, who is scheduled to speak Wednesday and Thursday nights, alongside Vice President JD Vance. The gathering aims to frame the election as a choice between Trump's policies and what organizers are calling the "socialist wing" of the Democratic Party.
Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters expressed optimism about the event, predicting significant attendance and emphasizing the need for a different approach to win the midterms. Gruters stated that the convention was organized rapidly at the former president's suggestion, becoming a reality in just 60 days.
However, the convention's structure has also raised concerns among some Republican strategists. Several consultants close to the administration have voiced worries that an election centered on Trump, who they note has low approval ratings, could be detrimental to vulnerable candidates. There is also apprehension that the convention's prime-time slots, scheduled against the opening nights of the NFL season, might draw less viewership than the football games. One operative described the timing as "dumb," particularly its competition with the NFL's opening matchups.
Organizers plan for speakers, including Trump administration officials, to highlight policy achievements. These are expected to include efforts to lower pharmaceutical prices and past tax cuts. A person involved in the planning indicated that speeches would focus on policy wins and tax cuts, aiming to "surprise" critics.
Historically, the party of an incumbent president often loses House seats in midterm elections. The GOP currently holds a narrow five-seat advantage in the House, having lost 41 seats in 2018 during Trump's first term. Trump reportedly conceived of the convention as a strategy to counter these historical trends, especially given economic concerns like inflation and rising gas prices, which have impacted the party in power.
The convention's prime-time lineup features a mix of established and emerging figures. Wednesday's speakers include Dr. Mehmet Oz, Rep. Byron Donalds, Jay Feely, Mike Bouchard, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Thursday's schedule includes Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, Karoline Leavitt, and Donald Trump Jr.
Former President Trump indicated on Truth Social that the stage would be prioritized for candidates in close races, rather than those with substantial leads. "We want to save the 'stage' for them," he wrote. "We don’t need people who are up 45 points, and have been in office for 30 years, as much as we love them all!"
Candidates in competitive races have adopted varied strategies regarding the convention. Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Mike Rounds of South Dakota are not attending, having previously distanced themselves from Trump's trade policies. Conversely, other candidates in tight races, such as Rep. Mike Lawler, Senator Jon Husted, and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, are scheduled to speak at the event.