Dallas, Texas – The Republican Party’s inaugural midterm convention wrapped up Thursday night at the American Airlines Center, where President Donald Trump delivered a direct call for voters to head to the polls on Nov. 3. The event, billed as a historic gathering of party officials, candidates and supporters, highlighted Texas leadership and paid tribute to the late Charlie Kirk.
Trump’s Vote‑Out Message
President Trump closed the convention with a straightforward appeal: “Go out and vote.” He reminded supporters to treat the upcoming midterms as if his name were still on the ballot, reinforcing the party’s focus on turnout rather than individual races.
Vice President JD Vance’s Focus on November
Vice President JD Vance took the stage during the final hour, urging Republicans to preserve the political coalition built around President Trump. “We gotta take care of business this November and then we’ll worry about what comes next,” Vance said, emphasizing immigration, culture, family and faith as core issues.
Texas Leaders Emphasize Values and Security
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick framed the election as a moral battle, saying, “This election coming up is not about politics. It’s about darkness, and it’s about light.” Gov. Greg Abbott warned that voters face a choice between “common sense and crazy,” highlighting border security, law‑enforcement support and protection of Texas land from foreign ownership.
Sen. Ted Cruz warned against “Shariah law” and other threats to the Constitution, drawing loud applause from the crowd. Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson explained his recent party switch, citing public safety, economic freedom and respect for taxpayers and families as guiding principles.
Honoring Charlie Kirk
The convention marked the first anniversary of Turning Point USA co‑founder Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Pastor Lucas Miles of TPUSA Faith led a video tribute, and attendees chanted “Charlie” in remembrance. Vance and Trump both referenced Kirk’s legacy, underscoring the party’s commitment to youthful activism.
Convention Highlights
More than 50 speakers filled the two‑day schedule, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., former White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and Donald Trump Jr. A solemn segment honored the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with a video and remarks from Tunnel to Towers Foundation CEO Frank Siller.
While the weather brought record‑high heat of 101 °F, scattered thunderstorms provided brief relief as the event continued. The RNC livestream remains available for those who missed the live proceedings.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.