WASHINGTON (AP): Republicans will hold their first-ever national convention ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, with President Donald Trump announcing the event will take place September 9-10 in Dallas, Texas.
Unlike the party conventions traditionally held during presidential election years, the gathering is designed to focus attention on key congressional races ahead of the November midterms.
Republicans currently hold narrow majorities in both the U.S. House and Senate. Control of Congress will be decided in November’s elections, with both parties competing for seats that could determine the legislative agenda for the remainder of President Trump’s second term.
Trump announced the convention on Truth Social, saying the event would highlight the administration’s accomplishments since the 2024 election and feature entertainment and campaign rallies.
The Republican National Committee approved changes to its rules earlier this year, allowing the party to hold a national convention outside of a presidential election cycle.
Holding the convention in Dallas also places a spotlight on Texas’ closely watched U.S. Senate race, where Republican nominee Ken Paxton is facing Democratic nominee James Talarico.
The event comes as both political parties intensify their efforts ahead of the midterm elections, which historically determine whether the president’s party maintains or loses congressional seats.
Democrats considered holding a similar national gathering before the midterms but ultimately did not move forward with the idea.
