Republicans stage costly Dallas convention as last-ditch bid to boost 2026 midterms
The GOP is holding a two-night convention in Dallas, banking on Donald Trump’s celebrity to revive its 2026 midterm prospects despite internal doubts.
Republican strategists have scheduled a two-night convention in Dallas, describing it as a "Hail Mary" to reverse projected losses in the 2026 midterms. The event, driven by Donald Trump’s demand for a mid-term convention, will feature extensive media coverage, flags and high ticket prices, despite the absence of a presidential nominee. Party insiders say the gamble reflects the GOP’s weakened position in the polls and its struggle to distance itself from Trump’s low approval ratings.
Democrats intend to stage a statewide "Love Thy Neighbor" food drive at the same time, aiming to underscore the nation’s affordability challenges. City officials estimate security costs near $2.5 million, a burden taxpayers fear will bear the financial strain. Several Republican candidates have declined to attend, fearing the association with Trump could hurt their own campaigns.
Why it matters
The convention shows how the GOP is risking resources and reputation to lean on Trump’s brand ahead of crucial midterm elections.
How this story developed
- Aug 15 Trump aides say president reluctant to campaign for down-ballot Republicans
- Sep 1 Lone Star Liberty PAC committed $15 million to a new television advertising campaign for Paxton.
- Sep 2 Trump told reporters the helipad, intended for Marine One, is now operational after critics warned that landing on the lawn was unsafe. The announcement coincides with the restart of construction on the White House Ballroom, a project the president has championed despite legal challenges. The Supreme Court recently cleared the way for continued building, and Trump says private funds are covering the work. He also highlighted other capital-area renovations, including work near the Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool.
- Sep 2 The Cook Political Report moved Texas and Iowa into toss‑up status.
- Sep 2 A poll shows Talarico at 44.0% and Paxton at 43.4% among likely voters.
- Sep 3 USDA announced plans to fund small and midsize meat‑packing operations.
- Sep 3 The Justice Department petitioned the Supreme Court to suspend a district judge’s order that halted a new USPS regulation tightening mail-in ballot requirements.
- Sep 3 Sand publicly opposed Harris’s potential 2028 presidential run.
- Sep 4 The Supreme Court ruled that the lawsuit challenging the ballroom lacks standing, allowing construction to continue.
- Sep 4 The administration filed an emergency petition with the Supreme Court.
- Sep 5 Judge extended the preliminary injunction blocking the rule.
- Sep 5 Judge Talwani issued a new order on Friday extending the injunction.
- Sep 6 Trump ordered a Dallas midterm convention just before Thanksgiving, triggering a ticket‑sale scramble and prompting several GOP officials to boycott the event.
- Sep 6 Administration filed a third petition to the Supreme Court seeking to overturn the injunction.
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