Trump Rallies Republicans in Dallas as Party Fights to Hold Congress

Republicans convened in Dallas for a two-day midterm convention, hoping an appearance by President Donald Trump would energise voters and help defend their slim majorities in the House and Senate. Party figures acknowledged that historical trends favour the opposition in midterm elections, but argued that solidarity with Trump remains their strongest asset in November.

Speaking on the first night, a series of Republican lawmakers warned that tax cuts and immigration enforcement would be at risk if Democrats took control. Trump closed the evening with a lengthy primetime address in which he described the electoral choice as straightforward and encouraged supporters to vote as though he were on the ballot himself. "Pretend I'm on the ballot," he said, predicting the contest would be "something very special."

He also floated a proposal to pay $5,000 to every American adult if his party prevails, a promise that could exceed $1 trillion at a time when the country carries a record $40 trillion debt. Near the end of his nearly two-hour speech, he mentioned a plan to cut credit card swipe fees but offered few details.

The convention's second night is expected to focus on what House Speaker Mike Johnson called the "Contrast with America," with Republicans promoting their tax-break and spending-cut package and warning of Democratic overreach. Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to deliver a keynote, with Trump returning for closing remarks.

Majority Leader Steve Scalise framed the stakes in stark terms, warning of impeachments if Republicans stay home, while House GOP Whip Tom Emmer drew loud reactions by naming several prominent Muslim Democratic politicians. Not all Republicans attended the gathering, and the party competed for attention with the opening week of the National Football League season.

Democrats, holding their own events in the city, accused Republicans of ignoring voter concerns about high prices and the administration's ethics. "We want to ensure that people can actually live their lives, be able to work, have access to healthcare," said Representative Robert Garcia of California, adding that the president appeared more focused on social media posts and the Dallas gathering.

With both chambers in play, the president's agenda for his final two years in office hangs on the outcome. Congressional margins are expected to be narrow, with a small set of competitive races likely to decide control. Trump, who has disputed past defeats, said unity was paramount this time, predicting that "the great American majority" would make its voice heard.