RNC offers free tickets and high-priced packages ahead of Trump-led Dallas convention
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The Republican National Committee launched a lottery for complimentary seats and sold premium donor packages as it prepares for a multi-day convention in Dallas, amid concerns about President Trump’s low approval ratings and some GOP officials opting out.
The Republican National Committee announced a public lottery for free tickets to its upcoming convention in Dallas, Texas, offering front-row seats and VIP treatment to selected entrants. The four-day event, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, is expected to draw about 20,000 attendees at the American Airlines Center, according to the RNC.
In addition to the lottery, the party is selling donor packages, including a $250,000 round-table seat with President Donald Trump and an optional commemorative photo for an additional $88,600. A $20,000 “honorary delegate” tier provides a Texas shirt and cowboy hat. The RNC said the convention will feature 109 speakers, with JD Vance delivering the keynote on Wednesday and Trump speaking on both evenings, closing the program on Thursday.
Several Republican officeholders have publicly declined to attend. Representative Tom Barrett of Michigan said, "I can't control what the president's going to say at the convention, but I can control where I'm at," reflecting concerns about the political risk of appearing at the event. Senate Majority Leader John Thune is not listed as a speaker, though he is expected to attend fundraisers, and First Lady Melania Trump is also absent from the speaker roster.
RNC Chairman Joe Gruters described the schedule as an "action-packed" two-day program that will outline the party’s agenda and the stakes for the November election. Trump has promoted the gathering on his social platform, calling it the "Greatest Rally" and promising music and extended appearances.
The convention’s location is intended to support Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton, whose race is closely contested according to recent polling. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released in late August showed Trump’s approval rating at 33 percent, the lowest level recorded for him in that survey series.