Republicans stage first midterm convention centered on Trump amid concerns over his low approval
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The GOP will hold a two-day convention in Dallas called “Trumpapalooza,” featuring Donald Trump as the focal point, as party leaders weigh the risk of tying candidates to a president with historically low approval ratings.
Republican National Committee Chair Joe Gruters said the upcoming two-day gathering in Dallas, beginning Sept. 9, is intended to boost voter turnout, emphasizing that “we need the president front and center.” The event, dubbed “Trumpapalooza,” will feature Trump delivering the headline speech on the first night and is billed as the party’s first midterm-season convention.
Party strategists acknowledge that Trump’s approval rating, currently around 33%, could be a liability in swing districts. GOP strategist Charlie Black noted that candidates would benefit from focusing on their own issues rather than the president’s performance. Several Republican office-holders in competitive races, including Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, have said they will not attend, citing a long-standing practice of avoiding conventions held during election cycles.
Democratic analysts view the convention as a referendum on Trump, arguing that his unpopularity even in some red areas may hurt GOP candidates. “They’re making it a referendum on him at a time when he’s extremely unpopular, even in red areas,” said Democratic strategist Matt Corridoni.
Supporters argue the rally could energize the base and narrow the enthusiasm gap that polls show favors Democrats. Republican strategist Whit Ayers said any effort that “closes the gap” would aid GOP candidates, while Trump has warned that his supporters may stay home if he is not perceived as being on the ballot.
The convention’s timing also pits it against the opening nights of the NFL season, raising questions about viewership. Major broadcast networks have not confirmed whether they will carry the event, and right-leaning cable outlets are expected to provide the most coverage.
Analysts such as Southern Methodist University political-science professor Calvin Jillson describe the effort as a “long shot” to change the overall trajectory of a challenging midterm cycle for Republicans.