Some Republicans in Battleground States Choose Not to Attend GOP Midterm Convention

Ahead of the Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas, Texas, scheduled for next week, several Republicans from battleground districts have indicated they either will not attend or are undecided. The convention aims to promote President Donald Trump's record despite his low approval ratings. Republican Rep. Zach Nunn of Iowa stated he will be working in his district during the convention. Arizona Rep. Juan Ciscomani will not attend due to a scheduled debate on the second night of the convention. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie from Pennsylvania expressed uncertainty about his attendance, citing the need for more information on the convention's schedule. Rep. Lauren Boebert, who has criticized Trump, is also undecided. Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine will not attend, as she has historically avoided political conventions. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows Trump's approval rating at 33%, the lowest of his terms. Despite the absence of some battleground Republicans, approximately 100 House Republican members and candidates are expected to attend. The House Republican campaign committee has requested contributions from attendees ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. GOP Rep. Derrick Van Orden plans to attend, calling the event a platform to discuss Republican achievements. Other candidates, including Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton and Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers, are confirmed attendees. Some gubernatorial candidates, such as Georgia's Rick Jackson and Wisconsin's Tom Tiffany, will miss the convention to campaign in their states.