GOP Skepticism Grows as Trump's Off-Year Midterm Convention Draws Donor Prices

Dozens of Republicans are skipping Donald Trump’s off-year midterm convention in Dallas—at least 45 of more than 70 surveyed lawmakers and candidates—citing prior obligations or a protest of the event. The two-day gathering, headlined by Trump to rally GOP fundraising and support, features pricey donor events (photo with Trump for $88,600; roundtables at $75k–$250k) and is drawing criticism as a costly distraction while independents remain unengaged; still, some leaders like Mike Johnson and Ted Cruz will attend as the party faces an uphill race ahead of the midterms amid inflation and other voter concerns.