Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin has praised the extensive security operation surrounding the World Cup, describing the cooperation between federal and local law enforcement as «amazing.» In an exclusive interview, Mullin said he will not get a good night's sleep until July 20, the day after the World Cup Final, but expressed delight that the security operation is running smoothly, even in cities with historically different political leanings such as Seattle and Los Angeles.
«We may disagree on a lot of stuff when it comes to immigration and maybe some other issues,» Mullin said, «but when it comes to protecting the fans and the fans' experience here, in LA or in other areas around the country, we've all really worked together, and I hope we can carry that on between the state, federal and local partnerships. We can do a good job for our cities when we work together.»
Millions of soccer fans from around the world are experiencing the United States for the first time, and many, given media coverage of the Trump administration in their home countries, appeared to expect a highly visible, militarized security presence. However, that is not what they have encountered. Much of the security work is being conducted undercover or in the background, a deliberate choice, Mullin explained.
«We want people to enjoy their time,» he added. «We don't want to feel like they're walking through a war zone, but we want to let everybody know we're also working very hard to secure the premises. I don't care if you're outside the stadium, or you're inside the stadium, but the amount of officers we have that are dedicated to this from the federal, local to state is absolutely amazing, and we're doing it together.»
Mullin also credited the role of fans, both from the United States and overseas, in contributing to a safe World Cup, which many have described as possibly the best World Cup experience ever. «They're so passionate about it, and they love America,» Mullin said. «I mean, we see in the videos, my wife is absolutely infatuated with the amount of videos going on social media, with the fans that are here from around the world that are getting to experience the greatness of America, which is what it's all about. We're like no other nation.»
He added, «I don't care if you drive the country from coast to coast, you see the most beautiful land and the friendliest people. And we get to showcase it because of President Trump's vision back in Trump 45 to bring the World Cup here to celebrate our 250th birthday.»
Mullin admitted he did not know much about soccer before the World Cup began, but like many across the country, he has embraced the sport and is enjoying every moment, even as he and his team work around the clock to ensure safety. He is looking forward to a good night's sleep on July 20, after the tournament concludes.
The security operation involves thousands of officers from federal, state, and local agencies, working together to protect venues and fans. The DHS has coordinated with the Department of Justice, the FBI, and other partners to implement a comprehensive security plan that includes intelligence sharing, threat assessments, and visible and invisible security measures. The goal is to create a safe environment without detracting from the festive atmosphere of the event.
Mullin's comments come amid a broader context of international sporting events that require significant security resources. The World Cup, which is being hosted by the United States for the first time, has drawn millions of visitors and global attention. The DHS has emphasized that the security operation is designed to be both effective and unobtrusive, allowing fans to focus on the games and the cultural exchange.
As the tournament progresses, officials continue to monitor potential threats and adjust security measures as needed. Mullin expressed confidence in the partnerships that have been formed, hoping that the collaborative spirit will extend beyond the World Cup to other areas of public safety. «We can do a good job for our cities when we work together,» he said, underscoring the importance of unity in ensuring the success of the event.
