Trump to Dominate Dallas Convention as Republicans Court His Base

Republicans are converging on Dallas for a two-day midterm convention that organizers have branded a "Trump-a-Palooza," placing President Donald Trump at the heart of the party's final push before the November elections. The event, which begins Wednesday, is part rally and part fundraiser, designed to energize the base even as the president's approval ratings remain low.

The programming is heavily focused on the president, who will deliver a keynote address on Wednesday and speak again on Thursday to close the event. He was initially scheduled for only one appearance. Other speakers include Republican congressional leaders, Cabinet members such as Attorney General Todd Blanche and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and the president's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr.

Organizers have outlined 12 hours of programming across the two nights, featuring more than 100 speakers. Segments will highlight tax cuts, border security, fraud allegations, and a proposed ban on congressional stock trading. The schedule notably makes no mention of the unpopular war with Iran.

Despite the fanfare, many Republican candidates are choosing to stay away. A survey of more than four dozen candidates found that a majority either planned not to attend or had undecided plans. Some cited scheduling conflicts, while others balked at the cost—Republican House members were asked to pay $25,000 for tickets and lodging. State parties were also selling packages, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $20,000.

House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged that some members would skip the event to campaign in their districts but said many would still appear. "We'll parade our stars across the stage," he said. More than 100 House members and candidates are still expected in Dallas, including most of the party's top recruits in competitive districts.

The convention coincides with the start of the NFL season, which may limit its television audience. Democrats, who are not holding a similar midterm convention, are planning their own counterprogramming. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the event, saying Republicans were celebrating amid an economic crisis. Rep. Suzan DelBene, chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, argued that her party's focus on ground-level campaigning on cost-of-living issues would prove more effective than a national stage event.