The Republican National Committee plans to hold a first-of-its-kind convention ahead of the U.S. congressional midterm elections in Dallas on September 9–10. The two-day event, featuring President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, is expected to mobilize Republican Party supporters ahead of the November vote.
As The Hill reports, Trump announced the convention in late June. Some Republicans have expressed dissatisfaction with the tight organizational timeline and costs: according to the outlet, U.S. House members are expected to contribute $25,000 to participate.
Program and participants
About 20,000 participants are expected at the event, said John Hiller, a White House aide and CEO of the convention’s organizing board. Vance is set to deliver the keynote address on the first day, while Trump is to conclude the second day’s program.
The Republican National Committee has announced 109 program slots and speaker names, though most of them have yet to be revealed. Politicians expected to attend include Senate Republican Majority Leader John Thune, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
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Paxton is taking part in a competitive Senate campaign in Texas, where his Democratic Party opponent is James Talarico. John Taylor, a political science professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio, suggested that holding the convention in the state is intended to help Paxton in the race.
Security costs
Dallas police, the FBI, and the U.S. Secret Service are preparing to provide security during the convention. The city police estimate that these measures will cost the city $1.8 million. City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert said the authorities are considering reimbursement options and grant funding.
Deputy Police Chief Devon Polk warned of vehicle traffic restrictions, changes to public transportation operations, and an increased law enforcement presence, including personnel from other agencies. Officials also expect protests related to the convention.
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