Trump dominates Republican convention in Dallas ahead of US midterm elections

US President Donald Trump delivered the keynote address at a two-day Republican National Convention held in Dallas's American Airlines Center on September 10, 2026, just two months before the November midterm elections. The event aimed to rally the Republican base and convince undecided voters of the administration's achievements.

Trump defends Iran war and economic record

In an address lasting nearly two hours, Trump defended the US war in Iran, telling the cheering crowd: "Does anyone here think Iran should have nuclear weapons?" He argued that the attack was necessary to prevent nuclear proliferation and promised that oil prices would fall once the US wins the war. However, analysts note that six months into the conflict, the Iranian nuclear program has not been destroyed and the war shows few signs of ending.

Trump also showcased his deportation policies and tax cuts as signature achievements, presenting them as evidence of his successful stewardship. He cast the upcoming November elections as among the most important in US history.

Republicans paint Democrats as radical threat

Other speakers at the convention painted Democrats as a radical left-wing danger to the country. Republican congressman Tom Emmer described Democrats as united only by their disgust with America and the president. In a surprising move, Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania appeared via video, stoking speculation about a potential party switch, which he denies.

Republicans face headwinds with poor poll numbers, rising living costs, and the ongoing Iran war, which has caused fuel prices to spike. The convention seeks to mobilize the Republican base ahead of a closely watched midterm vote that could reshape control of Congress.