When it comes to hosting major events, there’s only one city that truly knows how to roll out the red carpet: Las Vegas. President Trump’s advisers are considering Las Vegas as the site of next year’s Republican midterm political convention — and it’s not hard to see why.
This isn’t just another conference. It’s a chance to put Nevada back in the national spotlight, boost the local economy, and showcase what a world-class city can do when it’s firing on all cylinders.
The Strip has seen better days. Business travel, conventions, and trade shows — once the lifeblood of Las Vegas — are still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels. According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, total visitation and convention attendance remain below 2019 highs. A nationally televised GOP convention could deliver the jolt the local economy needs, filling hotel rooms, restaurants, and small businesses across Clark County.
Vegas Has Done This Before — and It’s Bigger Than Ever
This wouldn’t be the first time Republicans brought their political energy to the Entertainment Capital of the World. Back in the 1990s, the GOP hosted the Western States Republican Leadership Conference right here in Las Vegas. It was a success — drawing conservative leaders, donors, and grassroots activists from across the region.
But here’s what’s different now: the scale.
Since the 1990s, Las Vegas has grown tremendously. The city now boasts more than 150,000 hotel rooms — more than any other city in America. The Las Vegas Convention Center has expanded into one of the largest and most advanced venues in the world, and new mega-resorts like Resorts World and Fontainebleau add luxury capacity that simply didn’t exist back then.
In other words, Las Vegas isn’t just capable of hosting a national political convention — it’s built for it.
The Right City, the Right Time
Las Vegas represents everything the Republican Party should stand for: entrepreneurship, innovation, and opportunity. It’s a city that thrives on free enterprise and rewards hard work.
Trump’s team wants the convention to energize voters, showcase rising conservative candidates, and remind America what strong leadership looks like heading into the midterms. No place amplifies a message like Las Vegas. With its iconic skyline, built-in media infrastructure, and global attention, the city guarantees wall-to-wall coverage and excitement.
And while critics might sneer at the idea of holding a political gathering in a city best known for neon and nightlife, they’re missing the point. Las Vegas has long since proven it can handle serious events. From international summits to major party conventions, the city runs them with precision and flair.
Nevada’s Star Power
If there’s one person who can help make this happen, it’s Nevada Republican Party Chairman Michael McDonald.
McDonald, who has served longer than any other GOP state chairman in the country, has built an unmatched network and a strong personal relationship with President Trump. He was instrumental in helping Trump carry Nevada in 2024 — the first Republican to win the state in two decades.
His leadership, along with Gov. Joe Lombardo’s steady hand, could make Nevada the perfect political and logistical partner for Trump’s midterm push. Together, they represent the kind of competent, business-minded leadership that gets results.
McDonald’s influence also ensures the event would run seamlessly from start to finish. He understands the city’s unique hospitality culture, its logistical strengths, and the conservative grassroots movement that’s growing across Nevada.
Economic Common Sense Meets Political Energy
A midterm GOP convention in Las Vegas would be a win for both politics and pocketbooks. Tens of thousands of visitors would pour in — delegates, campaign staff, media crews, and supporters — spending money in hotels, restaurants, and local shops. The city that thrives on big shows would once again have a full house.
That kind of boost matters. Many local businesses are still catching up from years of economic uncertainty. A week-long event of this magnitude could generate millions in direct spending and even more in national exposure.
And beyond the economics, the symbolism matters. Holding the Republican convention in a city built on the idea of opportunity sends a clear message: the GOP believes in American potential.
The Smart Bet for America
President Trump has said he wants this midterm convention to showcase unity, strength, and success. Las Vegas offers all three — and then some.
It’s a city that knows how to dream big, deliver results, and bounce back stronger than ever. That’s the same spirit the Republican Party wants to highlight as it heads into 2026.
So when the Trump team makes its final decision, they should look no further than the city that defines resilience and reward. Because if there’s one place ready to host America’s next great political moment, it’s not Washington or Dallas.
It’s Las Vegas, Nevada — where faith, hard work, and a little boldness can turn an idea into a jackpot.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views. Digital technology was used in the research, writing, and production of this article. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
