Breaking a century-old convention! Trump to hold first-ever midterm convention in Dallas

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the Republican Party plans to hold a convention in Dallas, Texas in September to mobilize voters for the November congressional midterm elections.

This arrangement breaks with tradition. Such national conventions are typically held only in presidential election years, not during midterm cycles. The Republican Party is currently under pressure to maintain control of Congress, as historical experience shows that the president's party often loses seats in the first midterm election after taking office. Additionally, unease over the economy and Trump's decision to take military action against Iran are also thought to potentially affect the election outcome.

Trump wrote on social media: "This has never happened in history before and will be a truly historic event. We will celebrate the 'Great American Comeback' and the extraordinary achievements of the American people through the 'America First' agenda. Big news! The Republican Party will hold a midterm convention for the first time, in Dallas, Texas—one of my favorite places. It will be fantastic!" According to two Republican sources familiar with the arrangements who spoke to Reuters, Trump himself plans to speak at the convention.

Among the candidate cities, Dallas ultimately beat out others such as Charlotte, North Carolina and Las Vegas to win the hosting rights. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Trump plans to turn this convention into a television-oriented showcase event, without involving formal party procedural processes, focusing on viewers watching from home.

According to the schedule, the convention is set for September 9–10. Trump said the event will bring together "hardworking Americans, great innovators, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, first responders, and job creators," and described it as an "unprecedented rally."

Through this convention, Trump hopes to further mobilize his MAGA supporters to vote. Midterm election turnout is typically lower than in presidential elections, making it especially critical to energize the base.

Multiple Republican strategists predict the party may lose control of the House of Representatives but still have a chance to retain a majority in the Senate, though the margin could be narrow. Although Trump has repeatedly mentioned the difficulty of holding the House, he has stressed to Republican lawmakers the importance of winning elections.

This move also means Trump will be more directly tied to the election results. Under current circumstances, the Republican Party is facing multiple headwinds. If Democrats regain control of either the House or the Senate, it would pose obstacles to advancing Trump's policies for the remainder of his term.

Looking at special elections and primary results since 2026, Democrats have performed better than expected overall, even making gains in traditionally Republican strongholds like Florida, Texas, and Georgia.

The race in Texas is particularly critical. Trump previously endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in his challenge to veteran Republican Senator John Cornyn. This endorsement had a significant impact in the Republican primary, and Paxton ultimately won comfortably.

This sets up a November matchup between Paxton and Democratic candidate James Talarico. Democrats believe Paxton, who is embroiled in multiple controversies, has vulnerabilities and are increasing spending in an attempt to break the party's long-standing dominance in the state.

Cornyn has not yet publicly endorsed Paxton. Local Republican strategists worry that declining enthusiasm among his supporters could benefit Talarico.

Talarico, a state representative and a candidate undergoing training to become a Presbyterian pastor, emphasizes to Democratic voters that he has the ability to attract some voters dissatisfied with Republicans. Democrats believe this strategy has potential given that Paxton is the opponent.