As President Donald Trump prepares to take center stage at a highly anticipated midterm convention this week, Republican strategists express growing concern that the former president himself may pose the biggest threat to the event’s success.

The convention, taking place over two days in Dallas, is unprecedented in modern political history. It is designed to galvanize the base of a president who is not on the ballot but remains a defining figure for the Republican Party.

Strategists warn that for the event to resonate, Trump must focus on his core achievements and avoid distractions. Insiders have highlighted the importance of his keynote address on Wednesday and closing remarks on Thursday being centered around Trump’s economic record and critiques of “Democratic socialism.”

“He can create a powerful narrative about Democrats that energizes our base like few others can,” said a GOP operative from Georgia. “If he maintains that focus, it could provide a fresh perspective for conservatives.”

The convention’s primary aim is to motivate low-propensity MAGA voters who traditionally skip midterm elections but fiercely support Trump. However, strategists caution that this is achievable only if he remains on message and avoids dwelling on personal grievances or distractions.

Mark Bednar, a GOP strategist and former communications director for Kevin McCarthy, emphasized Trump’s unique ability to connect with voters. “He has a way of reaching out to constituencies that candidates might struggle with,” Bednar noted. “Many of his supporters would go to great lengths to vote for him.”

Conversely, any deviation from the intended message could jeopardize that advantage. Republicans are acutely aware of the challenging political climate, with inflation affecting everyday life. Recent polls indicate gas prices averaging $4.15 per gallon and rising worries among Americans about food affordability.

A GOP operative in North Carolina expressed concern over the optics of holding a convention when constituents are struggling financially. “It’s crucial that attendees can demonstrate real relief on issues like grocery and gas prices,” he said. “Otherwise, we risk doing more harm than good.”

While Trump’s approval ratings have experienced a significant dip overall, his support among die-hard MAGA loyalists remains strong at around 90 percent. This divide underscores the Republican necessity for Trump to focus on mobilizing voters rather than indulging in self-centered narratives.

Some GOP insiders fear that any perception of prioritizing spectacle over substantive issues could amplify existing uncertainties about the party’s midterm prospects. With the House majority in a precarious position and the Senate landscape only slightly better, maintaining focus is critical.

Organizers have detailed a thoughtful agenda for the convention, hoping to keep Trump on point. Each day has themes—including trade and school choice on Wednesday and a focus on deportations and health initiatives on Thursday—to guide discussions and speeches.

Yet, the question remains: Will Trump adhere to this carefully crafted script? Acknowledgments among several Republicans hint at the unpredictability of the former president. His penchant for veering off-message has long been a topic of concern.

The stakes are high as the GOP looks to harness Trump’s influence without the risk of him diverging into tangential territory. With many party members invested in the potential to energize their voter base, the pressure is mounting for Trump to deliver a focused message.

As the countdown to the convention continues, Republican strategists remain both anxious and hopeful. The event is viewed as a crucial opportunity to reignite support and remind voters of what attracted them to Trump in the first place.

For many involved, success will hinge not only on mobilization efforts but also on Trump’s ability to resonate with American concerns. As economic challenges loom large on the national landscape, the effectiveness of the convention will be scrutinized closely.

The coming days in Dallas may very well shape the trajectory of the GOP in the upcoming midterms. How Trump navigates his role could be pivotal as Republicans strive to maintain or regain ground in a contentious political environment.

Ultimately, the convention presents both a platform for Trump to rally support and a high-wire act that could either bolster party unity or expose rifts. The stakes are set, and all eyes will be on how the former president capitalizes on this unique moment.