TV networks plan limited coverage of GOP's 2026 convention amid NFL games

Major TV networks and cable news channels will not air wall-to-wall coverage of the 2026 Republican midterm convention, as the event’s organizers prepare to compete for primetime viewers with the first two games of the NFL regular season.

TV networks plan limited coverage of GOP's 2026 convention amid NFL games

TL;DR

  • Major TV networks and cable news channels will not provide wall-to-wall live coverage of the 2026 Republican midterm convention.
  • Coverage will be limited due to competition from the first two games of the NFL regular season.
  • CBS and CNN will not cover the majority of the two-day convention live, opting for limited reporting.
  • NBC is unlikely to cover much of the convention live on Wednesday due to broadcasting the NFL season-opening game.
  • President Donald Trump is scheduled to speak on Wednesday, but his address will also compete with an NFL game on Netflix.
  • The Republican National Committee describes the convention as "Trump-a-palooza" and emphasizes its unique format and focus on the party's agenda and fundraising.
  • RNC Chairman Joe Gruters claims the convention will tell the story of "historic results" and President Trump's vision.