Donald Trump's upcoming Republican mid-term convention is being described as a train wreck by political insiders, with concerns ranging from exorbitant ticket prices to poor optics, according to a new report. The event, set for September 9 and 10 at the American Airlines Centre in Dallas, comes just weeks before the November mid-terms, historically viewed as a referendum on the president's performance.
What's wrong with the Republican convention?
Republican operatives have derided the extravaganza as a disaster, with one strategist bluntly calling it a 'shit show' in a report by Puck News. The discontent runs deep, touching everything from the price of admission to the event's timing and its potential clash with major sporting events.
Ticket prices spark outrage among House members
The National Republican Campaign Committee is asking House members to pay $25,000 (€21,551) for themselves and a plus-one to attend, according to three sources who spoke to the outlet. Some lawmakers face an even steeper ask: $100,000. Few appear eager to open their wallets.
Corporate donors invited to sponsor the event
Concerns have also been raised over the fact that corporate donors have been invited to sponsor the convention, particularly because no official party business is scheduled to take place. 'It's yet another opportunity to shake down corporate America,' a Republican strategist told Puck News.
Why is the timing raising eyebrows?
The event is scheduled for the day before the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, a date that carries deep emotional weight for many Americans. Trump, whose approval rating remains at historic lows in recent polls, could also prove to be a liability for Republicans running in swing districts.
'Nobody understands why we're doing a mid-term convention,' a campaign strategist said. 'It's just another show that Trump is going to put on to remind the voters that he is sitting there and maybe they don't want to be reminded of that.'
Will the NFL steal the spotlight?
The convention will compete with the opening game of the NFL regular season, when the Seattle Seahawks face the New England Patriots on September 9. The game is expected to draw a substantial television audience, potentially diverting viewers from the Republican event. NFL games are typically among the top-viewed programmes in the US every year. On the second day, the San Francisco 49ers will play the Los Angeles Rams.
What do organisers hope to achieve?
Organisers plan to highlight Trump's immigration policies and tax cuts, hoping the event will energise Republican voters. 'President Trump turns out voters like no other candidate and this convention will provide the momentum needed to expand our majorities in November,' RNC spokesperson Natalie Baldassarre told Reuters.
Frequently asked questions
When is Trump's mid-term convention taking place?
The convention is scheduled for September 9 and 10 at the American Airlines Centre in Dallas, Texas, just weeks before the November mid-term elections.
How much are tickets for the Republican convention?
House members are being asked to pay $25,000 (€21,551) for themselves and a plus-one, with some lawmakers facing requests for $100,000 contributions.
Why are Republicans criticising the convention?
Critics cite exorbitant ticket prices, poor optics, the invitation of corporate donors with no official party business scheduled, and the clash with NFL games and the September 11 anniversary.