Trump takes centre stage as Republicans fight midterm tide

Donald Trump addressed the Republican National Convention in Dallas, vowing Republicans would surge forward in the midterm elections amid grim forecasts and voter discontent. The president, whose approval ratings have dropped, told supporters that 55 days from now, their vote will decide whether America surges forward or stumbles.

Despite projections that Democrats will win both the House and Senate, Trump argued that his influence is tied to Republican fortunes. The convention featured speeches from cabinet members, lawmakers, and candidates, with Republicans emphasizing tax cuts, immigration enforcement, and manufacturing progress. Trump emphasized the need to defeat what he characterized as a far-left Democratic Party, while supporters expressed optimism that Republicans would "do just fine" in November.