President Trump delivered a nearly two-hour speech at the GOP midterm convention in Dallas, urging Republicans to 'pretend that I am running' to maintain control of Congress. He dismissed voter concerns over inflation as 'fake,' claiming he would lower prices by winning a war with Iran and blamed Democrats for high costs. Trump proposed a controversial $5,000 payment to every adult citizen if Republicans retain House and Senate majorities, calling it the 'Trump dividend'—a plan likely exceeding $1 trillion and raising legal concerns about influencing votes.

The convention focused on energizing MAGA base voters rather than independents. Senator John Fetterman appeared via video, introducing Pennsylvania’s David McCormick, signaling a rupture with his party despite affirming he would remain a Democrat if the Senate flips. Fetterman praised working with Trump to defend Pennsylvania’s steel industry, marking a notable bipartisan moment.

Most Senate Republicans in battleground states focused on attacking rivals rather than aligning closely with Trump’s message.