It looked like just another ordinary Thursday in Dallas — despite Republicans gathering for what was supposed to be an energizing national convention.
MeidasTouch reporter Katie Phang showed viewers the scene on the ground outside the Republican midterm convention, where she found little activity behind extensive barricades and a heavy law-enforcement presence.
“I can tell you, it’s an incredibly underwhelming energy here,” Phang said. "Many of you have been to conventions in other cities. There is a dynamic, almost frenetic energy surrounding a convention.”
“Here? she added. “Womp, womp. There are no people. There are no people walking around.”
The empty surroundings offered a stark contrast to the spectacle Republicans promised when they announced the first-of-its-kind convention. The event was designed to build enthusiasm and rally GOP voters ahead of the crucial November elections, when control of Congress will be determined.
Instead, Phang’s footage showed little excitement normally associated with a major political gathering. Phang explained to viewers that general-admission attendees were being assembled in Grand Prairie, outside Dallas, before being bused to the convention.
She acknowledged that the scene might become busier as more attendees arrived. For the moment, however, the event brought barricades and security officers but little visible excitement.
“Ultimately, I’m sure that’ll be a little bit more activity starting later,” Phang said. “But otherwise, yeah, seems just like a regular day in Dallas.”
