RNC scrambles to fill Dallas convention seats as Trump's low approval ratings spook GOP candidates

Key points

• RNC offers free tickets to boost attendance at the Dallas convention, which is seen as a 'Trump rally' rather than a traditional convention.
• Trump's approval rating is at 33%, the lowest of his career, causing some GOP candidates to distance themselves from him.
• The convention clashes with the NFL season opener and the 9/11 anniversary, potentially limiting viewership and attendance.
• Some candidates are removing Trump endorsements from their websites, while others are skipping the event due to costs or prior commitments.
• The event aims to energize the base and frame Democrats as radical, but critics argue it may backfire by highlighting Trump's unpopularity.

Background

The GOP has never held a midterm convention before, making this a unique and risky strategy. Previous Democratic midterm conventions in the 1970s and 1980s were seen as failures, leading the party to avoid them. The current convention is seen as an attempt to mobilize the base and boost turnout, but it faces challenges due to Trump's low approval ratings and the timing of the event.

How outlets are covering it

The Independent highlights the RNC's efforts to fill seats with free tickets, while The Guardian emphasizes the risks of tying the convention to Trump's low approval ratings. CBS News focuses on the speaker lineup and the absence of key figures like Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth. FOX 4 News details the logistical aspects, including street closures and security measures. The sources agree that the convention is a high-risk strategy, but they differ in their emphasis on the potential benefits and drawbacks.

Why it matters

The Dallas convention is a critical test for the GOP's midterm strategy. If it fails to energize the base or backfires by highlighting Trump's unpopularity, it could have significant implications for the party's chances in the November elections. The event also raises questions about the future of the party and the role of Trump in shaping its agenda.

What to watch

The convention will take place on September 9-10, with Trump and Vance speaking on both nights. The RNC will monitor attendance and media coverage to assess the event's impact. In the coming weeks, the party will focus on mobilizing voters and framing the election as a choice between Republican policies and Democratic radicalism.