A “Make America Great Again” hat is raised during a Republican event. Dallas will host the party’s first national midterm convention Sept. 9-10 at the American Airlines Center.
Smiley N. Pool/Smiley N. Pool/The Dallas Morning News
What is this event?
The Republican Party’s first national midterm convention, centered on President Donald Trump and the November elections.
When and where is it?
Sept. 9-10 at the American Airlines Center.
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Is this a traditional national convention?
No. Republicans are not nominating candidates or conducting major party business. Trump billed it as “a RALLY like none other” in “one of my favorite places in the World.”
Who is expected?
Trump and top Republican elected officials, donors, activists and thousands of supporters from across the country.
Who else?
Trump said the event also would feature entrepreneurs, manufacturers, first responders and entertainers.
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How many people are expected?
Organizers have projected about 20,000 attendees each day.
Can anyone attend?
Texas and other states are selling donor packages to serve as a “delegate,” while others are selecting attendees through applications, invitations or other methods.
How much do tickets that include delegate status cost?
Packages range from several thousand dollars for floor access and hotel accommodations to lower-priced options with fewer benefits.
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How is that different from a traditional presidential convention?
Delegates generally are selected through presidential primaries and caucuses to represent a candidate, though the rules vary by state.
Will the party adopt a platform in Dallas?
No major platform debate or formal party business is planned.
Why does it matter?
Organizers say the gathering will help shape Republican messaging and fundraising heading into the November elections.
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What about the Democrats?
Democrats have derided the event as a political “circus,” saying Texans are more concerned about everyday costs.
Will there be protests?
Dallas officials expect demonstrations, and designated protest areas may be established.
How much will the convention cost?
A preliminary estimate put the event’s cost at up to $40 million, but as of early August, Dallas had not said what the final cost or the public’s share would be.
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When was the last Republican national convention in Dallas?
1984, when Ronald Reagan accepted the GOP presidential nomination.
How is this different?
The 1984 convention nominated a presidential ticket. The 2026 gathering is focused on campaigning, fundraising and rallying supporters.