First Lady Melania Trump to skip Republican midterm convention in Dallas
Melania Trump will not attend the Republican Party's two-day midterm convention in Dallas, joining dozens of GOP lawmakers who have also declined to appear.
Melania Trump will not be present at the Republican Party's midterm convention scheduled for September 9-10 at Dallas' American Airlines Center, a White House official confirmed. The decision follows reports that at least 45 Republican lawmakers have also opted out, citing prior commitments, campaign duties in their districts, or the $25,000 attendance fee.
"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," Michigan Rep. Tom Barrett said, explaining his absence.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said members must make their own choices, adding that those who attend will "have a great time." President Donald Trump is expected to speak on both days and will participate in photo opportunities and roundtable sessions that carry reported fees of $88,600 and $250,000 respectively. Vice President JD Vance is also slated to appear.
The convention coincides with the NFL season opener and occurs a day before the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, raising concerns about timing and viewership. Melania Trump’s public appearances this year have been limited, with her last noted event being the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington on August 23.