The Republican Party is counting on its upcoming Dallas convention to rebuild momentum ahead of the November midterm elections. Party officials, donors and organizers see the September gathering as an important chance to energize voters and promote President Donald Trump’s agenda.
The convention will take place on September 9 and 10. Republicans originally faced criticism for organizing the event because it does not include traditional party business. Some strategists viewed it as an unnecessary distraction during the final weeks of the campaign.
Political conditions have since changed. Republicans now face voter concerns about rising living costs and the war involving Iran. Democrats are also mounting a strong campaign to challenge Republican control of Congress.
Republicans Put Trump at Center of Convention
Party organizers plan to use the event to highlight Trump’s policies on taxes, immigration and other issues. They also intend to feature Americans who they say have benefited from those policies.
Republicans will likely contrast their agenda with the Democratic Party, which organizers plan to portray as increasingly influenced by socialist policies and activists.
Trump will remain the central figure throughout the gathering. That strategy carries risks, however, because his approval rating remains weak. Some Republicans worry that putting him at the center could remind voters of concerns about the economy and the costs of the Iran war.
Republican National Committee spokesperson Natalie Baldassarre said the convention would promote Trump’s efforts to reduce drug prices, cut taxes and strengthen security along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Candidates Face Convention Dilemma
It remains unclear which Republican congressional candidates will receive speaking opportunities. Advisers for several candidates in competitive races told Reuters that they had not yet received information about potential speaking slots.
Reuters contacted campaigns involved in 37 competitive House races and eight closely contested Senate races. Only one campaign provided a detailed response.
Republican Representative Tom Barrett of Michigan plans to skip the convention and remain focused on his reelection campaign. His strategist, Jason Cabel Roe, said Barrett needs to spend his time with voters in his district.
Still, many Republican insiders view the Dallas gathering as an opportunity to boost enthusiasm. Polling suggests Republican voter enthusiasm currently trails Democratic enthusiasm.
The convention will also provide candidates with access to donors and national media attention. Republican donor Ray Washburne, who is co-chairing the event with his wife, expects about 30,000 people to attend.
Trump and Vance to Address Convention
Organizers say they have raised $42 million to finance the convention. Washburne also said most Trump Cabinet secretaries will attend, along with many Republican candidates competing in close races.
Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to speak on September 9. Trump will address the convention on September 10.
The timing could create difficulties for some delegates because the event takes place shortly after the start of the school year. One state party chair told Reuters that many delegates had returned their allotted seats because they could not make the schedule work.
Republicans Debate Political Value
Not every Republican believes the convention can change voter attitudes. South Carolina strategist Dave Wilson questioned whether a rally-style event could influence voters unless Republicans use it to offer solutions to the rising cost of living.
Some candidates also worry about becoming too closely associated with Trump. With his approval rating reported at 33%, certain Republican strategists believe candidates in competitive districts should focus on local concerns and independent voters instead.
At the same time, other party officials argue that Trump’s ability to attract Republican voters makes the convention worthwhile. They believe a major national gathering could provide momentum before Election Day.
Convention Offers Fundraising Opportunity
The Dallas event will also serve as a major networking and fundraising opportunity. Candidates and donors can meet at the gathering while campaigns seek additional attention before the November 3 election.
The Republican National Committee has already launched an online store offering official convention merchandise, including hats, shirts and mugs.
Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton could also benefit from the national attention surrounding the event, according to Washburne. Paxton’s campaign has faced controversy, but a high-profile convention in his home state could provide additional exposure.
For Republicans, the Dallas convention now represents more than a traditional political gathering. Party leaders hope it can energize supporters, strengthen fundraising and help the party defend its congressional majorities.
