Fact Check: Is Trump’s claim that Dallas GOP convention was the first-ever midterm meet true?
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump made a historical claim during the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, saying the event was the “first-ever midterm convention of any party.”
The claim quickly drew attention because political parties have held conventions between presidential election years.
With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, Trump’s statement has raised questions about whether the Dallas event was truly the first of its kind. So, is Trump’s claim that this was the first-ever midterm convention true?
Claim: Trump claimed in Dallas speech 'first ever midterm convention of any party'
Texas Dem Party Chair on Republicans' midterm convention in Dallas:
— Headquarters (@HQNewsNow) September 9, 2026
Why Dallas? Dallas has a world-class memory care clinic specializing in dementia, so it gives easier access and opportunities for Trump, who clearly has ailing health. pic.twitter.com/M9Fbqc9d9U
Republicans held their first midterm election convention in Dallas on Wednesday, September 9. Trump delivered the keynote speech at the event, dubbed “Trump-a-palooza.”
Trump’s speech also included a claim regarding the history of midterm conventions. He said the Dallas event was the “first-ever midterm convention of any party.”
Several Republicans running in competitive races said they would not attend the convention. Before Trump’s speech, Sen John Fetterman appeared in a video to introduce Senator Dave McCormick, R-PA.
Meanwhile, Democratic Gov Dan McKee faced a primary challenge from Helena Foulkes, a former CVS executive. If McKee loses, he could become the first sitting governor in the country to lose a primary in eight years.
Fact Check: False; Democrats held midterm conventions before
The claims are false. Trump said during his speech the Dallas event was the “first-ever midterm convention of any party.” However, Democrats held midterm conventions before.
The party hosted one in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1974 and another in Memphis in 1978. President Jimmy Carter attended the 1978 convention and delivered remarks.
Trump also told the Dallas crowd that he had won the presidency three times, repeating his long-standing claim that he won the 2020 election.
“When I’m on the ticket, Republicans always do very well,” Trump said. “We won the presidency three times.” However, official election results show that Trump won the presidency in 2016 and 2024, while Joe Biden won the 2020 election.
Trump also said, “It's not even two years, but we have more money being spent from outside countries and companies, over $20 trillion.”
However, reports found that the figure was inaccurate. The White House website lists $11.2 trillion in domestic and foreign investments, about half the amount Trump cited. The figure includes aspirational multi-year goals, as well as future purchases and sales of products, rather than only capital investments.
