For over two hours before President Trump spoke at his midterm convention in Dallas, he was secluded at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, meeting with MAGA Inc., his super PAC. The event was part of several cash-focused gatherings. In arena suites sponsored by super PACs and AI groups, Republicans toasted donors sorted by suite caliber and lanyard credentials. Trump and Vice President JD Vance headlined fund-raisers for the Republican National Committee. Vance's luncheon was expected to raise $2 million; Trump's event charged $250,000 a head and $88,600 for a photo with the president.

Lobbyists filled hotel lobbies like the Ritz-Carlton, The Joule, and The Crescent Court, doubling as meeting places for Trump officials like Chris La Civita and Meredith O'Rourke. Reince Priebus was seen enjoying a drink, while Michael Whatley and Mike Rogers declined reporters' questions. Ken Paxton greeted donors in the security line at Vance's luncheon.

The convention was light on top megadonors like Elon Musk and Miriam Adelson. Some fund-raisers described turnout as poor. Parties continued, hosted by a donor network aligned with Vance, and by a group including former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Donald Trump Jr., attended by Ted Cruz. TikTok hosted a rooftop event. Tyler Pager contributed reporting.