Republican midterm convention will be ‘Trumpist pageantry’ - at the party’s own risk
The Republican Party is planning a midterm convention that critics describe as 'Trumpist pageantry,' raising concerns about its potential to alienate voters. Historical precedents suggest that midterm conventions can be politically risky and divisive for the party in power.
Why it matters
The event serves as a litmus test for the Republican Party's strategy and internal unity ahead of critical midterm elections.
Donald Trump speaks during an ‘End of Summer BBQ’ with Republican lawmakers in the Rose Garden at the White House on 2 September in Washington DC. Donald Trump speaks during an ‘End of Summer BBQ’ with Republican lawmakers in the Rose Garden at the White House on 2 September in Washington DC. Republicans Republican midterm convention will be ‘Trumpist pageantry’ – at the party’s own risk A historically unpopular president will take centre stage as the party seeks to sway voters with an unprecedented event
David Smith in Washington Mon 7 Sep 2026 06.00 EDT Last modified on Mon 7 Sep 2026 12.58 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google I t seemed like a good idea at the time. In December 1978, Jimmy Carter, a US president besieged by inflation and energy crises, watched as thousands of Democrats descended on Memphis, Tennessee, for a rare midterm convention .
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