Conservative commentator condemns Trump’s midterm convention strategy as political malpractice

During a recent episode of the "Fast Politics" podcast, conservative commentator Charlie Sykes sharply criticized Donald Trump’s push for a midterm convention, labeling it "political malpractice on an epic scale." He explained that the event forces GOP candidates to spend between $25,000 and $100,000 to be present, while turning the election into a de-facto referendum on Trump himself. Sykes noted growing frustration among Republican lawmakers, who see the convention as a waste of resources and a distraction from campaigning in their districts.

Party officials have warned that candidates who stay away may lose crucial support and risk alienating 15-20 percent of the Republican base. Sykes warned that the timing—less than two months before the midterms—makes the strategy especially damaging, calling the upcoming gathering a "s——show for the ages."