President Donald Trump announced on June 30, 2026, that the Republican Party will hold its first-ever midterm national convention in Dallas, Texas, on September 9 and 10, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. Traditionally, national conventions occur only in presidential election years, making this event unprecedented [1, 2, 3, 4]. Trump called Dallas "one of my favorite places in the World" and said the convention "will be a truly Historic Event," promising great entertainment and a festive atmosphere [1, 2, 3, 4].
The Republican National Committee changed its rules earlier this year to permit a convention during the midterm cycle amid Trump's second term in office [3]. The convention aims to energize Republican voters and boost turnout ahead of the November 2026 midterm congressional elections, where Republicans face the challenge of defending narrow majorities in both chambers of Congress [1, 2, 3]. Trump plans to deliver a speech at the event to motivate supporters to vote, addressing the traditionally lower turnout seen in midterm elections [2, 3].
The event will celebrate achievements under the Trump administration, emphasizing "America First" and "Make America Great Again" policies, which Trump describes as fulfilling long-unmet promises and driving America's comeback [1, 3, 4]. The convention is also strategically located in Texas, a key battleground state with a competitive Senate race featuring Republican Ken Paxton, endorsed by Trump, against Democrat James Talarico [1, 2, 3]. Paxton won the Republican primary by defeating longtime Senator John Cornyn but faces scrutiny due to past scandals [1, 2, 3].
Trump's approval ratings remain low amid economic concerns and controversies including immigration policies and the administration’s stance on the conflict in Iran [1, 2, 3]. The U.S. Supreme Court recently blocked Trump's executive order seeking to limit birthright citizenship in a 6-3 ruling, with Chief Justice Roberts stating, "The Fourteenth Amendment’s framers intended every person born on this soil to be a citizen" [3].
Democrats aim to win control of one or both chambers in the November midterms, which would allow them to block Trump's legislative agenda and launch investigations into his administration during his final term [1, 3]. The Republican Party hopes the convention will rally its base despite the historic challenges presidents’ parties usually face in midterms [2].
The Republican midterm convention is set for September 9-10, 2026, in Dallas, with preparations underway to energize voters ahead of the crucial November elections.
