Republicans have opened their first-ever midterm convention in Dallas, placing Donald Trump at the centre of a two-day political gathering focused on tax cuts, border security and energising the party’s supporters ahead of November’s elections.
The event at the American Airlines Center has been billed by Republican National Committee chairman Joe Gruters as a “Trumpapalooza”, underlining the extent to which the party is tying its midterm campaign to the president.
Trump is scheduled to deliver the keynote address on Wednesday evening and speak again on Thursday, when he is expected to close the convention. Vice-president JD Vance is also among the main speakers.
Republican organisers have planned about 12 hours of programming featuring more than 100 speakers, including senior members of Congress, cabinet officials and candidates in competitive races.
The programme is expected to promote the administration’s record on tax cuts and immigration, while also featuring discussions of alleged fraud and a proposed ban on members of Congress trading shares.
Rather than a traditional national convention, which is held every four years to nominate a presidential ticket, the Dallas gathering is being presented as a mixture of rally, fundraiser and campaign showcase. The Republican Party says it is intended to celebrate Mr Trump’s administration and highlight the party’s candidates.
Some Republicans in closely fought races have chosen not to attend, citing existing commitments or concerns about the cost of taking part. Others are hoping that an appearance alongside Mr Trump will help them reach his core supporters before he is absent from the ballot in the midterm elections.
The convention is taking place as Republicans seek to defend their control of Congress, with the party hoping that a high-profile display of unity in Dallas will encourage turnout and sharpen its message on the economy, immigration and national security.
