Full Breakdown
Trump-Led Republican Midterm Convention Faces Low Attendance and High-Cost Criticism
9/3/2026, 12:32:21 AM
Core Event: Unusual Midterm Convention Planned for Dallas
The Republican National Committee (RNC) announced a two-day “midterm convention” in Dallas, scheduled for September 9-10, 2024. President Donald Trump will deliver the keynote address on September 10, and a round-table with Trump on September 9 is priced at $250,000 per attendee. The event is billed as a “massive rally” with “great entertainment” to boost voter turnout and fundraising ahead of the 2024 midterm elections.
Background & Context
Midterm conventions are unprecedented; major parties normally hold conventions only in presidential election years to nominate a candidate. In June 2024, Trump announced the RNC would host the first-ever midterm gathering, promising it would generate enthusiasm and money for GOP candidates. The move comes as Republicans confront historically unfavorable midterm dynamics and voter dissatisfaction linked to Trump’s policies on Iran and trade.
Key Figures & Groups
- Donald Trump – Former president, keynote speaker, and primary fundraiser for the event.
- Natalie Baldassarre – RNC press secretary, spokesperson for the convention’s outreach.
- Mike Johnson – Speaker of the House, confirmed attendee.
- John Thune – Senate Majority Leader, confirmed attendee.
- Ted Cruz – Texas senator, confirmed attendee.
Timeline
- June 2024 – Trump announces the midterm convention plan.
- Early July 2024 – Survey of >70 Republican candidates and members conducted.
- September 9, 2024 (scheduled) – Trump round-table (attendance fee $250,000).
- September 10, 2024 (scheduled) – Trump delivers keynote address; photo opportunity with Trump priced at $88,600.
Data & Statistics
- Survey results show at least 45 of 70 Republican candidates and members intend to skip the convention, citing district obligations or protest.
- Attendance fees: $25,000 per person and guest for standard tickets; $100,000 for a higher tier.
- Round-table costs: $250,000 for Trump, $75,000 for Vice President JD Vance.
- Photo with Trump: $88,600; photo with Vance: $35,000.
Criticism & Opposition
An unnamed House Republican described the convention as a “waste of time,” arguing that the party should focus on “convincing independents” rather than “rallying the base.” Several lawmakers, including Michigan Rep. Tom Barrett and Iowa Rep. Zach Nunn, cited district commitments as reasons for non-attendance.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The Independent article notes that the RNC “reportedly asked” members to spend $25,000 for attendance, while the Wall Street Journal-sourced invitation lists a $100,000 higher-tier option. The exact number of confirmed attendees beyond the high-profile list remains unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Republicans across the country are rallying behind President Trump’s America First agenda that’s brought lower drug prices, lower taxes, and a secure border, and this convention will provide the momentum needed to expand our majorities in November,” — Natalie Baldassarre, RNC press secretary
What’s Next
The convention’s scheduled dates (September 9-10) remain on the calendar. The RNC has not released a final attendance list, and fundraising totals from the event will be reported after the convention concludes.
