Key facts
- President Donald Trump announced the Republican Party will host its first midterm convention in Dallas, Texas.
- The event is scheduled for September 9-10.
- The convention is intended to rally support for Republican candidates ahead of the November elections.
- It is described as a 'Trumpapalooza' fundraiser and a platform to contrast with Democrats.
- Ticket prices range from thousands of dollars, with some discounts for Texans.
President Donald Trump announced that the Republican Party will convene its first-ever midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, on September 9-10. The event, described as a 'Trumpapalooza,' is designed to rally support for GOP candidates ahead of the November elections and to contrast the party's platform with that of the Democrats.
The convention, expected to draw over 20,000 attendees, will take place at the American Airlines Center. While not a traditional convention involving party business like nominations or policy platform decisions, it will serve as a platform to showcase Republican stars and energize the party's base, particularly focusing on engaging lower-propensity voters. Trump himself is expected to speak, aiming to leverage his influence to support candidates in competitive races, including key contests in Texas.
Ticket prices for the event are reportedly substantial, with top-tier 'Honorary Delegate' packages originally priced at $20,000 now available for $10,000, and a second-tier option reduced from $15,000 to $7,500. However, prices have been halved for Texans. The selection of Dallas is attributed to Trump's preference, with RNC Chairman Joe Gruters noting the president's fondness for the city and its supporters.
In anticipation of the convention, local Democratic and civil rights groups have announced plans for counter-protests. The event is seen as an opportunity to place Texas, with its critical U.S. Senate race between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico, at the center of national political attention.