Fewer than half of vulnerable congressional candidates have speaking roles at GOP convention

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 10, 2026

The Republican Party held its first-ever midterm convention in Dallas to rally candidates and supporters ahead of the November elections. With many vulnerable candidates participating and some opting out, the event aims to boost morale and strategize as the GOP faces uncertain prospects in key House and Senate races.

The Republican Party launched its first midterm convention in Dallas on Wednesday, aiming to energize candidates and supporters ahead of the November elections. The event, which runs through Thursday, is unusual for a midterm year, as conventions traditionally focus on presidential nominations. The GOP hopes the gathering will help reverse its declining position in recent polls that have cast uncertainty over control of Congress.

President Donald Trump is scheduled to headline speeches on both nights of the two-day convention. However, a recent analysis of the 45 most competitive House and Senate races indicated that fewer than half of the Republican candidates in these battleground contests have been given speaking roles. According to the review, only 19 vulnerable candidates are slated to appear on the convention platform.

Among those confirmed to speak on Wednesday are Senate hopeful Michael Whatley from North Carolina, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton—who is running for Senate—Ohio Senator John Husted, and Georgia Congressman Mike Collins. These candidates are all facing tight races or trailing Democratic opponents in the polls. Thursday’s speaker list includes incumbent Representatives Ryan Mackenzie of Pennsylvania and Mike Lawler of New York, as well as challengers Derek Merrin in Ohio and Eric Flores in Texas. These races have been classified as "toss ups" by political analysts.

Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers, who is also engaged in a highly competitive contest, is scheduled to address attendees Thursday. Yet, many vulnerable Republicans have opted out of the convention entirely, citing various logistical challenges. The event coincides with the opening weekend of the 2026 National Football League season, which may impact attendance and focus.

The convention features prominent Republican congressional leadership, including House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana, Majority Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota, and Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso of Wyoming, all set to speak Wednesday. A number of lesser-known House members seeking reelection, such as Representatives Anna Paulina Luna of Florida, Brandon Gill of Texas, Rob Bresnahan of Pennsylvania, and Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin, are also scheduled to participate.

In addition to congressional candidates, Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds is slated to deliver remarks. Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick, who is not up for election this cycle, will appear alongside representatives of Pennsylvania’s steel and manufacturing sectors.

Thursday’s program includes appearances by former Attorney General Bill Barr and former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker, as well as South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster. The convention is being closely watched as a potential barometer of Republican enthusiasm and strategy heading into a critical election that will shape the legislative agenda for the remainder of President Trump’s term.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.