Trump takes center stage in Dallas, Republicans debate a future without him

Dallas, Texas is hosting Republican party gathering this week, with President Donald Trump as the main attraction. However, the party's future remains uncertain due to a potentially disappointing performance in the upcoming midterm elections. Vice President JD Vance is widely viewed as a frontrunner to succeed Trump in 2028, as he is set to deliver a keynote address that could indicate his potential leadership of a party transformed by Trump's influence.

The GOP is divided over what aspects of Trumpism should be retained, with disagreements arising over issues such as tariffs, foreign intervention, and the extent of his populist agenda. While Trump remains the dominant figure in the party, his absence in 2029 could lead to a shift in party policies. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a leading candidate for the 2028 nomination, is not expected to speak at the Dallas event.

Amy Kremer, a Republican National Committeewoman from Georgia, hints at ongoing discussions about the party's future, stating that they have been happening for months among the base. She believes Trump's influence will endure, despite some supporters being unsettled by the ongoing Iran war.

Trump's transformation of the Republican Party, which abandoned traditional positions on trade and embraced a populist, America-first approach, has left many party officials and activists concerned about the need to adjust policy priorities. While some expect Trump's hardline immigration stance and skepticism of free trade to continue, others fear that his aggressive use of tariffs and military interventions may draw scrutiny.