President Donald Trump is framing next week’s first Republican midterm convention in Dallas as “big stuff,” a two-night rally he says will help the GOP hold Congress.
Trump spoke on Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s podcast, released Wednesday, *The Dallas Morning News* reported. The event is Sept. 9-10 at American Airlines Center. Trump said it will spotlight about 35 races that could decide control of the House and Senate, including Texas’ U.S. Senate contest.
“I wouldn’t use the term ‘mini convention’ because it’s really not that mini,” Trump said on the podcast, according to the *News*. “It’s going to be big stuff.”
He praised the arena and Mavericks owner Miriam Adelson. He called the Texas Senate race “a big one,” said Republicans have to elect Attorney General Ken Paxton, and attacked Democrat James Talarico in personal terms reported by the *News* and USA TODAY.
The Associated Press reported in June that Trump announced the unusual midterm convention to drive turnout without him on the ballot. Developer Ray Washburne, a GOP donor co-chairing the gathering, told the *News* organizers expect about 20,000 people each night.
Vice President JD Vance is scheduled as a featured speaker. Reuters reported Wednesday that a party official said Trump will now speak both nights. The RNC has described the program as a rally-style showcase of candidates and the administration’s record, not a nominating convention.
Outside the building, the Dallas Against the Trump Agenda Coalition is planning a Sept. 10 protest and march near the arena, according to the group’s event listing and *The Dallas Morning News*. Organizers have said the city canceled a special-event permit; they vow to assemble anyway. Dallas police have said they are aware of planned demonstrations. Some nearby businesses have told the *News* they may close or brace for street restrictions.
Motorists should expect heavy security and congestion around Victory Park those two evenings.
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