In an unexpected move, the Republican Party is hosting what some are calling a “Trumpapalooza” in Dallas. The event aims to energize Republican voters during this non-presidential election year.
LEILA FADEL, HOST:
Starting tomorrow, Republicans convene in Dallas for a unique midterm convention. While political parties typically reserve large conventions for presidential election years, this midterm gathering is set to feature former President Trump as the main attraction.
TAMARA KEITH, BYLINE:
Dubbed “Trumpapalooza” by Joe Gruters, chairman of the Republican National Committee, the two-night event will focus on Trump, who will be the headlining speaker. Questions arise regarding the decision to spotlight a president with low approval ratings as Republicans strive to maintain their slim congressional majorities. During a recent rally, Trump explained his perspective.
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PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: And the problem that we have is they say that Trump does great when he’s on the ballot. But when he’s not on the ballot, his people don’t come and they don’t vote for senators, congressmen and other Republicans.
KEITH: Polls indicate that Democratic voters exhibit higher enthusiasm for these midterms compared to Republicans. Trump urged his supporters with a direct appeal.
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TRUMP: So what I really want you to do is pretend, please, that I’m on the ballot. Just come and vote. It’s so important.
KEITH: This approach contrasts with that of many former presidents, such as President Biden, who during a 2022 rally joked about his campaign support strategy.
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JOE BIDEN: He’s up for reelection this year. And I told him, I’ll come campaign for him or against him, whichever will help the most.
KEITH: Breaking from political norms, Trump has aligned with a group supporting midterm ads that emphasize his accomplishments, with little mention of congressional Republicans.
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TRUMP: We gave you no tax on tips, no tax on overtime.
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UNIDENTIFIED NARRATOR: He’s fighting for you every day. Help him finish the job.
KEITH: Convention planners note that discussions will center on significant midterm issues like economic concerns, border security, and American values. However, less than half of the Republican candidates in crucial congressional races will be present. Congressman Zach Nunn of Iowa shared his decision to skip the event.
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ZACH NUNN: We’re going to be back in our district working hard.
At a White House briefing, Vice President Vance, also scheduled to speak, downplayed the significance of some candidates’ absence.
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JD VANCE: The president and I can go and make that argument on national TV. We don’t need a congressman in a tight race to be there in all cases. Sometimes it might be better if that guy’s out there raising money. But I think people are going to make a determination, what is the best way for me to spend my time as a candidate?
Democratic consultant John Anzalone, experienced with presidential conventions, expressed skepticism about the gathering’s potential impact.
JOHN ANZALONE: Most elected officials don’t even want to go to those. I mean, the expiration date on conventions have passed a long, long time ago.
Anzalone anticipates it will have little effect on the broader political landscape.
ANZALONE: He has created an economic and political environment that is disastrous for Republicans running for office. And this Republican convention is not going to change that narrative one iota for the midterm elections.
Nonetheless, attendees hope the convention will galvanize the party and boost fundraising efforts. Terry Schilling of the American Principles Project believes embracing Trump may be the key to avoiding further losses.
TERRY SCHILLING: Running to President Trump and defending his record, I think, is an interesting strategy. And I think it is so interesting that it just might work. We’ve tried running away from the president in previous midterms, and we almost always lose.
KEITH: Schilling suggests this strategy could be pivotal in navigating a challenging electoral season for Republicans.
Tamara Keith, NPR News.
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