Trump Urges GOP to Treat Him as Ballot Candidate

President Donald Trump urged Republicans to “pretend that I’m on the ballot” in November as the GOP opened its first midterm convention in Dallas, a two-day event to raise money, showcase candidates and energize voters rather than nominate candidates or adopt a party platform. Trump said control of Congress was essential to protecting his immigration, tax and economic agenda, while Republicans face the historical disadvantage of holding the White House and concerns about his low approval ratings. He also promised a $5,000 payment to every adult if Republicans retain both chambers, without explaining its funding, implementation or legal basis. Vice President JD Vance and more than 100 Republican officials are also participating, while Donald Trump Jr. is slated to speak and first lady Melania Trump is not attending. The strategy could energize Trump’s core supporters but make vulnerable candidates more accountable for his unpopular policies and controversies, potentially intensifying debate over the party’s post-Trump future after the November elections.