The first Republican midterm convention is under way in Dallas, with President Donald Trump preparing to headline the opening night as the party seeks to rally its base ahead of the November 2026 elections.
The two-day event, being held at the American Airlines Center on Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 September, is designed to showcase Republican candidates and promote the administration’s record. Trump is scheduled to address delegates on both nights, an unusually prominent role for a president at a midterm gathering.
His first speech is expected between 8pm and 9pm local time on Wednesday. The official programme lists a series of Republican lawmakers, Cabinet figures and candidates before the president takes the stage.
Among the speakers on the first night is Ken Paxton, the Texas attorney general and Republican candidate for the US Senate. Other names on the programme include House Republican leaders, cabinet officials and candidates from several closely watched races.
Organisers have scheduled 109 speakers and programme segments across the two evenings, covering issues including tax cuts, border security, government integrity and the party’s economic message. Vice-President JD Vance is due to deliver the keynote address on Thursday.
The convention is being presented by Republicans as a primetime showcase for the president, his policies and candidates seeking to defend or win seats in next year’s congressional elections. It is part rally, part fundraiser and part national campaign launch.
Democratic leaders have responded with counter-events in Dallas, accusing Republicans of focusing on political spectacle while voters face pressure from rising costs for housing, food, healthcare and energy. The Democratic criticism is expected to form a parallel message throughout the convention.
The event has also brought extensive security and traffic measures to the city. Roads around the American Airlines Center, including Victory Avenue, North Houston Street and Nowitzki Way, are being closed or restricted, while Dallas officials have estimated that police operations will cost about $1.8 million.
With thousands of visitors expected and federal and local security agencies involved, authorities have imposed strict controls around the arena, including restrictions on drones. The arrangements are expected to remain in place through the conclusion of the convention on Thursday night.
