JD Vance headlines Republican midterm convention as Trump remains central figure

Vice President JD Vance addressed the Republican National Convention in Dallas on Thursday, framing the party’s immediate goal as winning the November midterm elections before turning to longer-term plans.

"We've got to take care of business this November," Vance said, adding that the party would consider "what comes next" afterward. The two-day gathering, billed by supporters as a "Trump-a-palooza," featured a lengthy speech by President Donald Trump, whose approval ratings remain low. Party activists were divided over the wisdom of holding a midterm convention centered on the president. Virginia Republican Party chairman Jeff Ryer said the event allowed the campaign message to be tested before a large audience. Other attendees expressed skepticism about Trump’s impact, noting his rambling remarks were unlikely to sway undecided voters. One operative, speaking anonymously, said the president’s suggestion that voters "pretend I'm on the ballot" would not be effective. Despite the internal debate, the convention highlighted the party’s focus on retaining control of Congress. Trump pledged a $5,000 payment to every American adult if Republicans keep the House and Senate, a promise that drew cheers from supporters wearing the signature red MAGA hats. The event also sparked discussion about the party’s future beyond Trump. Several participants identified Vance and former Secretary of State Marco Rubio as potential successors, while others called for a new generation of conservative leaders. Vikki Consiglio, a Georgia activist, praised Trump’s ability to disrupt political norms, and Aiden Buzzetti of The Bull Moose Project said the convention underscored the need to consider the party’s direction over the next decade. Vance highlighted what he described as the administration’s record on the economy, border security and prescription-drug costs, contrasting it with a Democratic Party he said had moved far to the left.