Dallas, Texas – The Republican National Committee released the speaking schedule for the first‑ever GOP midterm convention, confirming that President Donald Trump will be the primetime headliner both nights. The president is slated to deliver a Wednesday night keynote at approximately 9 p.m. ET, followed by a Thursday evening closing address after Vice President JD Vance’s second‑night keynote.
Local impact and national significance
The convention, held at the American Airlines Center in downtown Dallas, brings together national leaders and Texas candidates as they prepare for the 2026 midterm elections. With less than two months until voters head to the polls, the event is positioned as a rally to reinforce the party’s message and boost turnout in key races that will determine whether the GOP retains its slim majorities in the House and Senate.
Trump’s message and party goals
President Trump described the gathering as “a truly historic event” and “a rally like none other,” emphasizing the administration’s policy achievements over the past two years. RNC Chair Joe Gruters echoed this sentiment, stating, “The midterm election is about the future of our country. President Trump and Republicans are fighting to launch the golden age of America while extreme liberal Democrats want to tear this country apart and create a liberal failed state with their out‑of‑touch and anti‑American views.” Gruters added that “the choice is clear in November and the American people will reject these liberal policies and deliver historic wins for Republicans across the country.”
Critics’ response
The Democratic National Committee’s rapid‑response team pushed back, arguing that “while everyday Americans struggle to pay their bills, fill up their tanks, or put food on the table, Republicans are hosting a multi‑million‑dollar celebration to satisfy an aging and erratic Trump and tie vulnerable Republican candidates closer to his failed agenda.” DNC spokesperson Kendall Witmer said, “Americans don’t want a ‘Trumpapalooza’ — they want lower costs and affordable healthcare.”
Key speakers and Texas focus
In addition to President Trump, the schedule features a slate of Republican office‑holders and candidates. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton will speak on Wednesday, and Governor Greg Abbott and Senator Ted Cruz are slated for Thursday. Senate Majority Leader John Thune is expected to attend in a fundraising capacity, though he does not appear on the speaker list.
Other notable speakers include RNC Chair‑emeritus Mike Whatley, Ohio Senate candidate Jon Husted, Georgia Rep. Mike Collins, and Michigan Rep. Mike Rogers. Several House candidates in competitive districts—such as Texas Rep. Monica De La Cruz, Wisconsin Rep. Derrick Van Orden, and Pennsylvania Rep. Rob Bresnahan—will also address the crowd.
Cabinet representation
Members of President Trump’s Cabinet are set to appear, underscoring the administration’s policy agenda. Attorney General Todd Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will speak on Wednesday, while Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will take the stage on Thursday, highlighting the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative.
What this means for voters
The convention serves as the GOP’s closing argument heading into November, aiming to contrast Republican policy proposals with what the party characterizes as far‑left Democratic proposals. By spotlighting the administration’s achievements and rallying the base, the event seeks to translate enthusiasm into votes in the upcoming midterm races across the nation.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
