Republicans Doubt $25,000 Trumpapalooza Will Lift Midterm Candidates as Dallas Event Centers on Trump
Updated
Updated · CNN · Aug 28
Republicans Doubt $25,000 Trumpapalooza Will Lift Midterm Candidates as Dallas Event Centers on Trump
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Aug 28
Summary
$25,000 entrance fees for House members, two days off the trail and a Dallas trip weeks before Election Day have fueled private Republican doubts that the Sept. 9-10 convention will help vulnerable candidates.
GOP operatives say the political climate has worsened since Trump conceived the event last year, with voter anger over living costs and frustration over the Iran war already creating midterm headwinds.
The convention also faces practical and messaging concerns: it overlaps with the NFL season opener and 9/11 commemorations, while some Republicans fear five hours of speeches will spotlight Trump more than candidates.
RNC officials still argue the gathering can raise money, showcase candidates and pivot the party into general-election mode before early voting, even as aides concede Republicans have struggled to unify their message.