Dallas, Texas – In a first for the Republican Party, President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance will headline a two‑night GOP midterm convention at the Dallas Convention Center, just 55 days before the November elections. The gathering aims to showcase the administration’s agenda, including the signature tax legislation, strong border enforcement, and efforts to lower drug prices.
Convention agenda and speakers
The Republican National Committee says the event will present “a clear and bold plan” for “hard‑working and patriotic Americans” after the anticipated November victory. Keynote speeches are scheduled for Trump on Wednesday and Vance on Thursday, with Trump also delivering closing remarks on the final night.
Cabinet members slated to speak include Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Attorney General Todd Blanche, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner. Congressional leaders such as House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso and Senator Tim Scott will also address the crowd.
Notable absences
Despite the high‑profile lineup, several prominent Republicans will not attend. First Lady Melania Trump has confirmed she will skip the convention. Senate candidates Ashley Hinson of Iowa and Dan Sullivan of Alaska, both in toss‑up races, have not responded to inquiries about attendance. Additionally, Rep. Zach Nunn of Iowa and Sen. Susan Collins of Maine have cited district and state duties as reasons for missing the event.
Fundraising component
The convention will also serve as a major fundraising opportunity. Invitations obtained by ABC News reveal a roundtable with President Trump on Wednesday where donors can contribute $250,000 for participation and an additional $88,600 for a photo opportunity. A similar roundtable with Vice President Vance on Thursday will cost $75,000 plus $35,000 for a photo.
Political context
The gathering comes amid a Reuters/Ipsos poll indicating President Trump’s approval rating sits at 33%, the lowest point of either of his terms. Nevertheless, the RNC emphasizes the convention’s role in rallying support for Republican candidates in pivotal House and Senate races.
Democratic leaders plan counter‑programming, with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries sending a delegation to Dallas and Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico launching a “Love Thy Neighbor” grocery drive to aid North Texans facing high food costs.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
