House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY) led a hearing today focused on the collaborative efforts between state, local, tribal, and territorial governments and private sector partners to secure upcoming major mass gathering events in the United States. The session included testimony from Mike Sena, President of the National Fusion Center Association; Ray Martinez, Chief Operating Officer of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Miami Host Committee; Joseph Mabin, Deputy Chief of the Kansas City Missouri Police; and Travis Nelson, Deputy Chief of Staff and Homeland Security Advisor for Maryland.
Chairman Garbarino addressed preparations for what he described as a “mega-decade” of significant events beginning this summer with the 2026 FIFA World Cup and celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary. He noted that these gatherings present both opportunities to showcase the nation and challenges requiring strong cooperation across all levels of government.
Garbarino outlined that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature more than 70 matches in 11 U.S. cities, attracting an estimated five million visitors domestically and up to six billion viewers worldwide. Concurrently, communities across the country will hold America250 celebrations to commemorate two-and-a-half centuries since the Declaration of Independence was signed.
To support ongoing planning efforts, Garbarino said Congress formed a “Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events in the United States” last spring. He thanked Task Force Chairman McCaul and Ranking Member Pou for their leadership: "I want to thank Task Force Chairman McCaul and Ranking Member Pou for their leadership, and all Members of this Committee for their consistent engagement on these security preparations through the many briefings, hearings, and roundtables we have convened."
He also cited recent legislative action aimed at bolstering event security. Efforts included passing counter-unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) authorities for law enforcement in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act as well as allocating $625 million specifically for World Cup security needs through legislation enacted last summer.
Garbarino identified weaponized drones as a top security risk: "One of the greatest security risks facing our nation today is the malicious use of unmanned aircraft systems, or drones." He emphasized bipartisan Congressional action to address such threats by investing $500 million in state and local counter-UAS capabilities.
Reflecting on lessons learned since September 11th ahead of its upcoming 25th anniversary, Garbarino said: "As we approach the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks later this year, this solemn milestone reemphasizes the importance of our collective mission in the face of constantly evolving threats." He added that agencies like TSA, CBP, CISA—and DHS Secretary Noem—have provided direct updates about roles they will play during these events.
Garbarino stressed that maintaining public safety requires continuous coordination beyond federal agencies alone: "But DHS and the federal government cannot achieve this mission alone. Close collaboration, communication, and information sharing between federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments...is essential."
He concluded by underscoring shared responsibility: "If there are challenges, we have a collective responsibility to identify them and work together to find actionable solutions. Protecting public safety is not a partisan issue..."
The hearing sought input from frontline representatives about intelligence-sharing needs and coordination measures necessary to safeguard attendees at large-scale gatherings scheduled over coming months.
