Vance takes spotlight as Republicans close Trump-heavy convention

On Thursday, US Republicans concluded their midterm convention in Dallas, hoping that President Donald Trump's political appeal would help them despite unfavorable election forecasts. Vice President JD Vance took the stage for a keynote address, providing a prime-time opportunity to demonstrate his potential as a future Republican presidential candidate.

The two-day convention, centered around the theme of supporting Trump's political legacy, featured Trump delivering his closing remarks after Vance's address. The gathering, which has been heavily reliant on Trump's presence, has been plagued by unfavorable election projections, with Democrats projected to win the House and the Senate to be in a tight race.

Trump, who has faced low approval ratings, used his opening night speech to propose a $5,000 Trump dividend to every American adult if Republicans maintain control of Congress. He also defended the ongoing war in Iran and warned that Democrats would lead the country to a "communist country" if they won the election. Despite Trump's efforts to energize his base, some Republicans chose not to attend the convention, citing campaign obligations.

Vance's appearance before Trump's speech added intrigue to the event, as he vies for the 2028 Republican nomination while the current administration remains absent from the ballot.