In a strategic move ahead of the November elections, President Donald Trump is set to host a dinner for Republican lawmakers facing tough races this Wednesday evening in the White House’s elegant Rose Garden. This gathering aims to solidify support as the GOP navigates through an increasingly challenging electoral landscape, marked by complications such as the war in Iran, rising gas prices, and new tariffs.

Among the attendees confirmed are several key figures such as Wisconsin Representative Derrick Van Orden, Michigan’s Rep. Tom Barrett, and Georgia Senate nominee Rep. Mike Collins. Van Orden, speaking briefly with POLITICO, expressed his intent to attend, emphasizing the importance of the meeting. The dinner not only serves as a critical strategizing opportunity but also as a prelude to next week’s GOP midterm convention in Dallas, which is seeing mixed attendance commitments from party members.

The timing of the dinner coincides with escalating pressures on Republican incumbents who are desperate for additional resources to counteract Democratic critiques concerning the rising cost of living. In response to these demands, GOP Speaker Mike Johnson recently met with billionaire Elon Musk, who has pledged substantial financial support for the party this election cycle.

Interestingly, Trump’s political operation, MAGA Inc., has been relatively conservative in deploying its substantial $400 million war chest. However, the organization did invest over $800,000 in support of Sen. Darline Graham in a recent primary, indicating a potential shift towards more aggressive funding strategies.

This strategic gathering also aligns with the launch of a major ad campaign by Securing American Greatness, a nonprofit arm of Trump’s political operation. The campaign includes endorsements from high-profile individuals like UFC President Dana White and highlights key legislative achievements, such as the tax cuts from the last domestic agenda bill. This nearly $1 million national TV ad reservation aims to bolster the president’s approval ratings as the midterms approach.

As the dinner unfolds, it will be crucial to observe how Trump’s interactions and strategies with these key GOP figures will influence the party’s trajectory and cohesion in facing the upcoming electoral challenges.