Mike Biundo: 2024 RNC Convention Recap

National Conventions are usually a few parts chaos, a few parts drama, a few parts staged unity, and a whole lot of made-for-TV messaging. They are also, in reality, the official starting point of the flip switch to the general election, our political Super Bowl.
This year’s RNC convention, however, seemed different. Don’t get me wrong; it had all the attributes of a convention – crazy hats, too old-to-be dancing delegates, late-night not-so-exclusive parties, VIP cattle calls, the parade of one-time presidential aspirants kissing the ring of the nominee, and the eventual balloon drop.
What felt different, though, is this time, the unity was real, the messaging crisp, and the stakes never felt higher. As someone who has worked at many of these conventions over the years, I can confidently say that our party has never been more unified.
From the first debate where Joe Biden, already reeling from one of the worst first terms in history, completely lost his party to the scary assassination attempt on President Trump’s life, the GOP has come together.

Working with the RNC and Trump team on the convention has been a privilege. It was only improved by sharing the floor as Whips with Ascent Partners Derek Dufresne and Kory Wood. We were joined in Milwaukee by our other business partner, Andrew Boucher, and the one and only Mark Warner.
The Ascent team is excited about the general election and stands ready to help our fellow consultants and candidates to victory.
One word of caution, though – as good as this election feels now, continue playing until the whistle blows. Campaigns change in a moment; fight like you are ten points down. Raise the money, contact the voters, and be disciplined in your messaging. Win.
Join us in celebrating the upcoming birthdays and work anniversaries of our Ascent team members. We are grateful to have them on our team!
July 23rd: Kory Wood’s Birthday
July 24th: Wes Farno’s Birthday
July 26th: Austin Buholtz’s 3rd Work Anniversary
August 1st: Derek Dufresne’s Birthday