Trump to Speak Both Nights of GOP Midterm Convention Amid Low Republican Attendance

President Donald Trump will address both nights of the Republican Party's two-day midterm convention in Dallas, after the original plan called for him to speak only on the second night. The change comes as a growing number of Republican lawmakers have said they will skip the September 9-10 event, citing campaign priorities, scheduling conflicts and the cost of attendance.

"President Trump wants to set the tone for the entire convention," a party official told Reuters.

Dozens of GOP members have confirmed they will not travel to Dallas, offering reasons such as focusing on district campaigning, prior engagements and the $25,000 entrance fee. Some lawmakers indicated they wish to distance themselves from the president amid concerns about his approval ratings on foreign policy and the economy.

Rep. Tom Barrett, who is not attending, told Politico, "I can’t control what the president’s going to say at the convention, but I can control where I’m at, what I’m doing."

The opening night will compete with a primetime NFL game, and the second night will coincide with a football match streamed on a subscription platform. A Republican operative said organizers may open additional seats to the public because they have not filled the venue with party officials and donors. The White House and the president’s team are reportedly increasing outreach to encourage Republican attendance.