What to watch as Republicans gather in Dallas for Trump’s unusual midterm convention

Republicans are gathering in Dallas for an unusual two-day midterm convention conceived by President Donald Trump, designed to recreate some of the spectacle of a presidential nominating convention and energize Republican voters ahead of November. Republicans have never held a midterm convention like this before, although Democrats experimented with similar events decades ago.

Trump is making himself the centerpiece, urging supporters to vote in the midterms as though he were personally on the ballot. He will speak both nights, joined by Vice President JD Vance, Cabinet officials, congressional leaders and Republican candidates. More than 100 House members and candidates are expected, though some Republicans in competitive races may stay home to campaign locally.

The convention will highlight the administration's record on immigration, taxes, prescription drug prices and tariffs, while promoting Republican candidates in key races. Particular attention will go to Texas Senate nominee Ken Paxton, whom Trump backed against incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in the Republican primary. The event comes as Republicans face a more difficult political environment, with Trump's approval ratings and voter concerns about the economy and Iran weighing on the party heading into the midterms.

More than a traditional party convention, the Dallas gathering is essentially an effort to nationalize the 2026 midterms around Trump himself—using speeches, entertainment, rapid-fire presentations and a rally-like atmosphere to mobilize his supporters.

By Michelle L. Price, Associated Press.