Democratic candidates are finding unique ways to capitalize on the recent GOP midterm convention held in Dallas. In Michigan, Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed has launched an online video game designed to troll his Republican opponent, former Representative Mike Rogers. The game focuses on Rogers' attendance at the convention, framing the event as a point of contention for voters.

Simultaneously, Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania has taken a different approach following his own surprise video cameo at the same convention. Fetterman is using the appearance to fuel a new fundraising push, sending out text messages to supporters that highlight his history of bipartisan cooperation with Republican Senator Dave McCormick.

While both strategies involve the GOP convention, the reactions have differed significantly. El-Sayed’s approach is primarily oppositional, aimed at highlighting his opponent's alignment with the national party. Conversely, Fetterman’s strategy has drawn mixed reactions; while he is using the platform to promote his bipartisan credentials, the move has also sparked criticism from some members of his own party who are unhappy with his participation in a Republican-led event. The two cases illustrate how Democratic candidates are attempting to navigate the optics of the GOP convention to either attack their rivals or define their own political brands.