Republicans kick off ‘midterm convention’ to overcome Trump unpopularity

Republicans plan to center the US president at the two-day event, while slamming Democrats as socialists

Republicans are gathering in Texas on Wednesday for a rare midterm convention", as they attempt to convince Americans to vote for a party led by a deeply unpopular president who has overseen inflation and led the US into an increasingly unpopular war.

Donald Trump will dominate the two-day convention, appearing both nights as the GOP works to cling to control of the House of Representatives in November. Republicans plan to put the president at the center of the event, a bold strategy given his approval rating is hovering at about 38%, while accusing the Democratic party of being socialist and out of touch with Americans.

Chris Hippensteel contributed to reporting