Key facts
- Donald Trump delivered a keynote speech at the Republican Party's first midterm convention in Dallas.
- The convention served as a rally for Republicans seeking to boost turnout for the November elections.
- Trump urged supporters to "pretend that I'm on the ballot" in the upcoming midterm elections.
- Trump suggested that relief from high gas prices might take longer than the midterms.
- Trump promised to pay every adult US citizen $5,000 if Republicans win both chambers of Congress, provided the money is spent in the US.
Donald Trump delivered a lengthy keynote speech at the Republican Party's inaugural midterm convention in Dallas, an event designed to rally support and boost turnout for the upcoming November elections. The convention, which lacked official party business, was filled with diehard Trump supporters, highlighting the former president's continued absolute grip on the party. Trump urged attendees to "pretend that I'm on the ballot," acknowledging his role as the party's primary turnout driver and raising questions about its future leadership beyond his influence. He also addressed economic concerns, suggesting that relief from high gas prices might take longer than the midterms and that short-term economic pain is acceptable to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. This message comes as polls indicate the cost of living is a top concern for voters, and Trump's approval rating has reportedly hit a new low. During his speech, Trump made a notable pledge to pay every adult US citizen $5,000 if Republicans win control of both chambers of Congress in November, with the condition that the money must be spent domestically. This proposal, which lacks details on implementation or funding, was quickly labeled an "empty promise" by Democrats and drew applause from the convention audience.