Lawmakers Announce Bipartisan Task Force on Enhancing National Security for Major US Events
House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green (R-Tenn.) and Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) announced on May 6 a bipartisan task force to enhance national security for a few major events, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in the United States over the next few years.
In addition to the soccer tournament, the Task Force on Securing the Homeland Amidst Special Events will also focus on next year's 250th anniversary of America's independence, the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 2027 NFL Draft, and the 2028 Olympics, which will be in Los Angeles. The draft will be held in Washington, while the golf tournament will be in Farmingdale, New York, in September.
Green and McCaul did not release the names of who will be on the task force, which will oversee the federal government's security measures for the events.
In statements, McCaul and Green talked about the importance of the task force.
'As the U.S. prepares to host high-profile events like the Olympics and the World Cup, it's imperative that we make robust security preparations to ensure Americans—and millions of international guests—can safely enjoy their experience,' McCaul said. 'While these events provide a unique opportunity to showcase the United States' global leadership and commitment to excellence, they can also attract increased threats as our adversaries and other malign actors seek to exploit and sabotage them.'
Green noted that there have been major events in America where there were mass casualties. These included the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing, where
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'While this is an important opportunity to showcase American exceptionalism, we have seen time and time again that mass-spectator events can present unique challenges for law enforcement and prime opportunities for America's adversaries,' Green said, adding that 'it is of the utmost importance that we learn from the past and ensure the federal government leads robust and coordinated security efforts alongside state and local officials, emergency managers, and all levels of law enforcement to stay ahead of threats in the coming months.'
McCaul and Green's announcement of the task force comes the same day as President Donald Trump convened the first meeting of the White House Task Force on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Trump said during the meeting, which was held at the White House, that his administration 'will be working to ensure that these events are safe and successful, and those traveling to America to watch the competition have a seamless experience during every part of their visit.'
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