Susanna Riva US President Donald Trump opened the Dallas Convention, an unprecedented event convened ahead of the midterm elections. Taking an unusual approach, Trump defied political convention, risking his personal popularity to influence the outcome of the vote.
The war with Tehran was one of the central themes of his speech.
Trump declared that the conflict "will end immediately after the midterm elections because the Iranians can no longer resist. They are desperate and trying to influence the vote." This statement reflects his belief that international and domestic pressure is pushing Iran to seek a negotiated solution.
Trump's Strategy: An Unprecedented Convention
Typically, presidents avoid linking their names to the midterm elections, so they can pass on any defeats to the candidates. Trump, however, chose a different tack. He asked Americans to vote as if he himself were running, convinced he would be a magnet for support. The Dallas convention, dubbed "Trumpapalooza" by detractors, was designed to mobilize voters weary of war, inflation, and chaos.
This bold move could prove to be a double-edged sword. If the polls placing him at 30% approval prove accurate, Trump could find himself in trouble. However, he is convinced that the results of his first two years in office can turn the tide, turning the referendum on himself into a triumph.
Significant absences
Not all Republican candidates attended the convention. First Lady Melania Trump was absent, as was Maine Senate candidate Susan Collins. Both fear that their closeness to Trump could damage their campaigns, especially in a context like New England, where rising gas prices are a greater concern than the war in Iran.
These absences reflect a division within the Republican Party. While Trump seeks to unify the base, some candidates prefer to keep their distance, aware that the backlash could be significant. Trump's popularity, though strong among the MAGA base, risks dragging down the entire party.
The challenges for the Senate and the Upper House
One of the key issues at the convention is the race for the Texas Senate seat. Democrat Talarico is challenging Republican Paxton, and his victory would not only deprive the GOP of a key seat to maintain its majority in the upper chamber, but would also give the impression of a collapse. This scenario is particularly worrying for Trump, who sees the midterm elections as a crucial test of his leadership.
The Dallas convention concluded with a speech by Vice President Vance, but it was Trump who delivered the closing remarks. Administration officials and some candidates from the most closely held districts and states—35 according to Trump's calculations—are in attendance. These candidates hope to shine in the spotlight, but the risk of a backlash remains high.
In such a polarized political environment, the Dallas convention represents a crucial moment. Trump has put his personal popularity on the line, and the outcome of the midterm elections could determine the future of his administration and the Republican Party.