Inside the Republican Party's first-ever midterm convention in Dallas, supporters of former President Donald Trump largely dismissed national polls showing a decline in his approval rating and growing dissatisfaction with the ongoing war in Iran.
Attendees expressed unwavering confidence that Trump's involvement in the upcoming midterm elections would bolster the party's chances despite national trends. "If you don't get behind Trump, you're gone," said Nick Passino, a Trump supporter attending the convention. "We just need unity from the party and everybody else to get behind Trump."
A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in August indicated Trump's approval rating had fallen to 33 percent, with the Iran conflict and the economy cited as significant factors. The poll also revealed that only 20 percent of Americans found the war worthwhile, while 80 percent anticipated its continuation. However, those present at the Dallas gathering appeared unconcerned by these figures.
Questions about Trump's candor regarding the war were also brushed aside by convention attendees. Trump has publicly stated his expectation that the conflict would conclude immediately after the November midterms. "We trust the process and what Donald Trump wants to do," Passino stated.
Denise Hopkins of Louisiana echoed this sentiment, emphasizing faith in Trump's leadership. "There's no perfect human. Like the saying is that President Trump is not a perfect man, but he's a perfect man for the job," she said. Regarding the war, Hopkins asserted, "The US was 'absolutely 100 percent right' to act, pointing to Iran's long history of confrontation with America."
The convention also highlighted internal party dynamics, as evidenced by the Texas race between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico. Recent polling has shown Talarico leading Paxton, with an AARP poll conducted by Republican pollster Tony Fabrizio's firm showing Talarico ahead 48 percent to 44 percent. An Overton Insights survey found the candidates tied at 50 percent when leaners were included, and Talarico ahead 44 percent to 43.4 percent without leaners.
Despite these warning signs, convention-goers remained optimistic. "I'm not too terribly concerned about the polling," said Michael Walton of Dallas. "I think Paxton is a conservative warrior, and Texas knows that." Actor John Schneider expressed skepticism about poll results, stating, "I'm one of those people that don't believe the polls unless they're in my favor."
The potential impact of Trump's campaigning on the trail was also a topic of discussion. While some strategists express concern about a president with low approval ratings campaigning for others, attendees at the convention largely desired more of his presence. "I think it's a help," said Hopkins. "He's got courage. Courage is contagious."
Schneider definitively stated, "People who think that Donald Trump is not the face of the Republican Party are delusional."
Vice President JD Vance delivered the keynote address on the second night of the convention. During his speech, a protestor interrupted Vance's remarks, initially displaying a Mexican flag before throwing a Palestinian flag at the crowd. Other party efforts to shore up support include the Club for Growth spending in Nebraska and Vance's planned appearances in Kansas, indicating that Republicans are focusing resources on states that are typically considered safe GOP territory.
Trump's offer of $5,000 stipends to Americans if Republicans retain control of Congress has also drawn criticism and mockery from political opponents.