‘Energiser’ or ‘circus’: US voters weigh in on Trump’s midterm convention

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports that Republicans are holding an unusual midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, on September 9, 2026, in an effort to energize voters ahead of November’s legislative elections. The event is organized by the Republican National Committee and has been presented by Trump allies as a way to boost turnout even though President Donald Trump is not on the ballot. The article says the gathering highlights Texas’ growing importance in the fight for control of Congress and statewide offices.

The piece quotes Republican and Democratic voters in Dallas offering sharply different reactions. Some Trump supporters said the president can still motivate the party base and help Republicans defend their long-held dominance in Texas. Others dismissed the convention as political theater, arguing it does little to address concerns such as rising living costs, dissatisfaction with Governor Greg Abbott, or broader unease about Trump’s second term.

Al Jazeera says Texas has become a key battleground because polls show competitive races for the US Senate, governor and several House seats, including districts near the border. The article also notes that Texas has increasingly been used as a model for Trump-era policies on immigration, voting access and redistricting. Political scientists quoted in the report said Republicans are effectively embracing Trump rather than distancing themselves, even though his national approval has weakened, because they believe his support can still drive turnout in a low-participation midterm environment.