Dallas is preparing to host the Republican midterm convention in September 2026, with a newly established group of business and civic leaders spearheading fundraising and event coordination efforts. The gathering, slated for Sept. 9-10 at the American Airlines Center, is expected to draw thousands of Republican delegates, donors, elected officials, and activists ahead of the November midterm elections.

The Dallas 2026 Host Committee, a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization, has been formed to welcome visitors, support local businesses, offset costs for local governments, and promote the Greater Dallas region. The formation of the committee marks a significant step forward in planning since former President Donald Trump announced Dallas as the site for the convention earlier this year.

The Host Committee named several prominent figures as co-chairs. They include Ray Washburne, former finance chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC) and Dallas developer; his wife, Heather Washburne, a longtime Republican fundraiser; entrepreneur and investor Trent Troutt and his wife, philanthropist Lisa Troutt; and Trent Morse, a former Trump administration official. Additionally, Reince Priebus, former RNC chairman, will serve as a senior adviser supporting fundraising efforts.

Ray Washburne emphasized the city’s history of hosting major events and expressed optimism about showcasing Dallas’s hospitality and business environment. Lisa Troutt highlighted that the convention represents more than just political meetings. She described it as an opportunity to boost the local economy, enhance Dallas’s reputation as a destination for major events, and introduce the broader public to the cultural and economic offerings of both Dallas and Texas.

Trent Morse, who helped organize the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee and worked in various capacities during the Trump administration, brings experience in political event management as the committee advances preparations.

Party insiders have referred to the event informally as “Trumpapalooza,” reflecting the strong influence of former President Trump on the convention’s agenda and expected attendee base. The gathering will be the first Republican midterm convention held in Dallas in decades, reaffirming the city’s role on the national political stage as Republican officials seek to mobilize support ahead of the 2026 elections.