As Trump dominates convention, some Republicans quietly ask who comes next
Republicans gathered in Dallas for a midterm convention dominated by Donald Trump, sparking internal discussions about the party's future leadership. While some see the event as a vital testing ground for campaign messaging, others express concern over the party's long-term direction and Trump's current political standing.
Why it matters
The event highlights the ongoing tension within the Republican party regarding its post-Trump identity and its electoral prospects in the 2026 midterms.
Figure caption, Watch: Has Trump won over voters with his midterm convention?
Republicans descended on Dallas this week to turn their midterm prospects around, hoping an unprecedented convention dominated by President Donald Trump would energise voters ahead of the November election.
Many left the gathering - billed ahead of time by supporters as a "Trump-a-palooza" political fest - just as worried about the party's chances in 2026, and wondering what the Republicans' future will look like after the president leaves office.
Vice-President JD Vance, who is widely viewed as a top contender to succeed Trump, offered his a party a glimpse of its potential future during his keynote address on Thursday night.
"We've got to take care of business this November," Vance told the crowds.
"Then we'll worry about what comes next."
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