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Trump vows to be at centre of US midterms: Republican convention takeaways
Al Jazeera • • general
Key Points:
- President Donald Trump delivered a keynote speech at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, positioning himself as central to the November elections despite not being on the ballot, and urging voters to "pretend that I’m on the ballot."
- Trump promised an extensive campaign effort, vowing to visit about 35 competitive races and hold rallies to support Republican candidates, while also pledging a $5,000 "dividend" to adults if Republicans retain control of both congressional chambers.
- Trump defended his handling of the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, claiming the US was "winning" and suggesting further escalation, despite the war being a political liability with rising oil prices and public disapproval.
- Republican candidates facing tough races, including Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, used the convention to appeal for support, with Trump personally endorsing Paxton despite polling challenges against Democrat James Talarico.
- The event highlighted Republican messaging against perceived leftist and socialist candidates, framing the midterms as a battle between "mainstream" values and "extremes," though analysts warn Republicans face an uphill battle, particularly in Texas where polls show Democrats gaining ground.
