Trump and GOP Eye Midterm Convention Cities to Boost Midterm Chances

Potential host cities include Las Vegas, Dallas, Phoenix, Detroit, and Atlanta as Republicans aim to protect House and Senate majorities

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:39am

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President Donald Trump and the Republican National Committee are considering holding the GOP's first-ever midterm convention in 2026 in key battleground states like Nevada, Texas, Arizona, Michigan, and Georgia. The goal is to give Republicans a boost heading into the crucial midterm elections as they work to protect their narrow control of the House and Senate.

Why it matters

Midterm conventions are highly unusual, but the GOP sees it as a way to rally the base, showcase the party's accomplishments, and potentially gain an electoral edge in tight races across the country. The choice of convention city could impact voter turnout and enthusiasm in those states, which will be crucial for determining the balance of power in Congress.

The details

The RNC has already approved a rule change to allow for a midterm convention, which would normally only take place during presidential election years. Potential host cities being considered include Las Vegas, Dallas, Phoenix, Detroit, and Atlanta - all of which anchor key battleground states or regions that will be pivotal in the 2026 midterms. The goal is to boost Republican chances of defending their narrow House majority and protecting vulnerable Senate seats.

  • The RNC approved the rule change for a midterm convention last week.
  • The date and location of the convention are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president who is pushing for the GOP to hold a midterm convention to rally the base and potentially gain an electoral edge.

Joe Gruters

The chair of the Republican National Committee who called the potential midterm convention a "Trump-a-palooza" to highlight the former president's accomplishments.

Republican National Committee (RNC)

The governing body of the Republican Party that approved the rule change to allow for a midterm convention.

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What they’re saying

“We can really highlight all the incredible things that this president has done.”

— Joe Gruters, RNC Chair (1010wcsi.com)

What’s next

The date and location of the potential GOP midterm convention are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The Republican Party's unprecedented move to hold a midterm convention underscores the high stakes of the 2026 elections, as they work to protect their narrow majorities in the House and Senate. The choice of convention city could provide a crucial boost in key battleground states and regions.