Unsolicited text messages offering free tickets to next week’s Republican midterm convention in Dallas look like a scam, but party organizers say the offer is real.
The Republican National Committee confirmed the messages are part of a ticket push for the gathering Sept. 9-10 at American Airlines Center, according to The Dallas Morning News. The texts arrive from unfamiliar numbers, shout “FREE TICKETS” in all caps and send readers to a shortened link — the same red flags people are told to treat as fraud.
RNC spokesperson Zach Kraft told the newspaper the party wants Dallas-area residents to know they can get free tickets to see President Donald Trump, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” Kraft said the texts are part of a broader marketing campaign that also includes print, TV, radio and digital ads.
The shortened link goes to the official registration page on GOPConvention.com. The form asks for a name, email, mobile number, ZIP code and state. It does not ask for payment information. Recipients can reply STOP to end the messages. Supporters may request up to six tickets per phone number for either day or both days.
Registration is not a guaranteed seat. The official site says each person must appear in person, pick up a credential and follow security rules, and that a credential does not guarantee arena entry if the building hits capacity.
The free-ticket push follows earlier paid packages. The Texas GOP first sold convention credentials for as much as $20,000, including floor access and “honorary delegate” perks, according to The Dallas Morning News. Those prices were later cut. The RNC also opened a public lottery for general-admission and VIP tickets. Kraft previously told The Dallas Express that lottery winners would be notified Sept. 4 and given 24 hours to claim tickets.
The event is billed as the party’s first midterm convention, a two-day rally and showcase rather than a traditional nominating meeting. Organizers have said they expect more than 20,000 people, including media.
People who get a message should still check that the destination is GOPConvention.com and that no one is asking for a credit card.
