Dallas mayor brags about party switch during Republican midterm convention speech
FULL: Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson’s RNC Midterm speech
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson delivers his full speech at the 2026 Republican midterm convention. Johnson discusses his decision to leave the Democratic Party, public safety, policing, taxes, homelessness, economic development and his vision for Dallas as "America’s next financial capital," which he calls "Y’all Street." He also criticizes Democratic policies in cities including Chicago, Seattle and New York, and urges voters to support Republicans in the November midterm elections.
DALLAS - The mayor of Dallas was among the Texas contingent to speak Thursday at the second and final night of the Republican midterm convention.
What we know:
Eric Johnson was reelected as Dallas’ mayor in 2023 as a Democrat, but switched parties just months after his reelection.
Johnson bragged about the switch during his speech, saying the change was rooted in priorities such as public safety and pro-business policies.
"Welcome to America’s sanctuary city, from socialism," Johnson said.
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson waves to the crowd at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, on Sept. 10, 2026. (FOX Local)
What they're saying:
He shot down what he said were socialist ideas from Democratic elites and decried the efforts of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani to open city-run grocery stores.
"The so-called warmth of collectivism is a stone-cold lie," Johnson said.
Dig deeper:
The mayor touted his efforts to grow the Dallas Police Department, reduce crime and homelessness and the so-called "Y’all Street" project being built in downtown.
"This November, choose up, not down," Johnson said.
Johnson ended his speech by calling on people to vote for "safer, stronger cities" by casting ballots for Republicans.
The Source: Information in this story came from a live stream of the Republican midterm convention and previous FOX Local reporting.