Republicans are gathering in Dallas for a two-day convention, an event conceived by former President Donald Trump, intended to energize the party's base in the lead-up to the midterm elections.
Trump had expressed a desire for a political gathering similar to the quadrennial presidential nominating conventions, which typically showcase a party's vision and formally select a candidate. While this event will not involve nominations, as those have been settled through primaries, it is designed to boost enthusiasm and turnout among Republican voters. The convention is open to the public, potentially giving it the feel of a Trump rally.
More than 100 Republican House members and candidates are expected to attend. Participants were reportedly required to pay $25,000 for tickets and lodging, a cost described as typical for political conventions. Some lawmakers in competitive districts had not yet confirmed their attendance or indicated they would not be present.
Trump is scheduled to speak each night of the convention. He delivered the keynote address on Wednesday, and is slated to speak again on Thursday following an address by Vice President JD Vance. The roster of speakers includes members of Trump's cabinet, such as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, as well as Attorney General Todd Blanche, Donald Trump Jr., and former White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton and Michigan's Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers are also scheduled to speak. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz are among the other notable figures addressing the convention. The program also features everyday Americans sharing their experiences with the former president's policies. Organizers have indicated that over 50 speakers and presentations are planned for each night, with remarks kept brief to facilitate online sharing.
A significant focus of the convention is expected to be on Trump's agenda, including his policies on immigration, prescription drug prices, tax cuts, and tariffs. Speakers are anticipated to present a partisan critique of Democrats.
The event also serves to highlight the first two years of Trump's term. Despite a dip in his approval ratings, Trump believes that campaigning on his record offers Republicans their best chance for success in the upcoming elections. The convention aims to project a strong performance and potentially support candidates like Paxton, whom Trump endorsed in a contested primary.