Trump Announces Historic First-Ever Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas

U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that the Republican Party will host a midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, turning a long-standing concept into a formal political event.

“BIG NEWS! For the first time ever, the Republican Party will hold a MIDTERM CONVENTION,” Trump announced on Tuesday. “It has never been done before, and will be a truly Historic Event.”

While designed to showcase Republican achievements, the rally is expected to face criticism from within the party. Scheduled for September 9 and 10, the convention takes place less than five months before the November 3 midterm elections. Some party officials express concern that the event could divert critical resources away from key battleground races during the final stretch of the campaign.

The convention also arrives at a sensitive political moment for Trump, as recent polling indicates declining approval ratings. A study published Tuesday by The Economist and YouGov found that 58 percent of U.S. respondents disapprove of his current job performance.

Despite this, Trump intends to use the platform to highlight the successes of his second administration. He specifically cited his “no tax on tips” policy—which provides a tax deduction of up to $25,000—and his deregulation of the fossil fuel industry to achieve “energy dominance.”

“Oil Prices are dropping sharply, even as we Denuclearize Iran,” Trump stated. “We are delivering on the promises that politicians talked about for decades, but never got done.”

Trump promised the event would feature “great entertainment,” though specific details have not been released. He framed the convention as a foundational moment for the nation, stating, “It will be a RALLY like none other! America’s 250th Birthday is approaching, and together, we are building the foundation for the NEXT 250 YEARS of American Greatness.”

The concept of a midterm convention has been discussed by Trump since September, when he suggested such an event could demonstrate the progress made since the 2024 election. Political analysts note that Trump appears to be attempting to nationalize the midterm elections, centering himself in the race to exert greater influence over state-level administration.

Although Trump will not be on the ballot, the 2026 midterms are widely viewed as a referendum on his presidency. The Republican Party currently maintains narrow majorities in both houses of Congress; losing control of either would significantly hinder his legislative agenda. Furthermore, Trump has expressed concern regarding potential impeachment should Democrats retake Congress, noting, “If we don’t win the midterms… they’ll find a reason to impeach me.”

Midterm conventions are a departure from traditional political strategy. While the Democratic Party previously held similar gatherings, they ceased after 1982 after being labeled a waste of resources. To facilitate this event, the Republican National Committee approved a rule change in January to allow for such a convention, which is typically reserved for presidential election years.

Democrats have already begun mocking the announcement. A social media account linked to House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries questioned the event’s tone, while other critics pointed to the choice of Texas—a Republican stronghold—as a strategic move amidst a highly competitive Senate race in the state. Democratic State Representative Cassandra Garcia Hernandez noted that the decision to hold the convention in Texas underscores the state’s importance, stating, “The battleground for our nation runs through Texas.”

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