DHS chief warns of World Cup security delays amid federal funding lapse
Homeland Security Secretary has warned that a prolonged federal funding lapse is complicating security preparations for FIFA World Cup
WASHINGTON, United States (MNTV) – U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has warned that a prolonged federal funding lapse is complicating security preparations for FIFA World Cup matches scheduled for next month in the United States, raising concerns about readiness and public safety at one of the world’s largest sporting events.
Speaking at a Department of Homeland Security briefing in Kansas City, Mullin said the shutdown-driven delays have weakened the government’s ability to fully prepare security operations ahead of the tournament.
Kansas City will host six World Cup matches between June 16 and July 11, with officials expecting approximately 600,000 spectators across multiple venues.
“We haven’t been able to be as proactive on putting those positions, those safety measures in place,” Mullin said, warning that the agency is racing against time to complete security preparations. “We have so much work to do.”
Mullin criticized the 76-day funding impasse, accusing Democrats of contributing to delays in law enforcement readiness. He argued that the political standoff has directly undermined preparation efforts and exposed hundreds of thousands of spectators to unnecessary risk.
Federal agencies are now accelerating security coordination efforts as the tournament approaches, though concerns persist over staffing shortages and operational strain linked to the funding disruption.
Transportation Security Administration Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill previously warned that reduced staffing capacity could further complicate airport and travel security operations during the high-profile event.
Representative Mark Alford echoed administration criticism, insisting that immigration enforcement and national security measures must remain above political dispute, according to news reports.
Civil rights groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and Amnesty International, along with more than 100 other organizations, have criticized the administration’s broader immigration and security posture connected to the World Cup, raising concerns about enforcement tactics and civil liberties protections during the tournament.
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