Congress evaluates US travel security for upcoming FIFA and Olympic events

In a recent meeting of the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security, lawmakers examined the current state of the U.S. travel system and its readiness for significant international events. The discussions highlighted the importance of enhancing security measures and infrastructure at airports, ports, and border entry points to accommodate an expected influx of international travelers.

The committee's focus was particularly timely, as the United States prepares to host several major events, starting with the FIFA Club World Cup this summer. This tournament will feature elite teams from around the globe and serves as a critical opportunity to test the nation’s travel systems and security protocols ahead of larger events, including the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

Chairman Jimenez emphasized the economic potential of these events, noting that they could generate nearly $95 billion in economic activity and attract over 40 million international visitors. However, he pointed out that the U.S. currently ranks last among top travel destinations in terms of national planning and leadership. Issues such as long visa wait times, outdated airport technology, and staffing shortages at ports of entry pose significant challenges that could hinder the country’s ability to capitalize on these opportunities.

To address these concerns, Jimenez expressed support for President Trump’s executive order establishing a White House task force focused on the 2026 World Cup. He is also working on legislation to create a federal task force dedicated to coordinating efforts for all major international events in the coming years. This initiative aims to ensure that all relevant agencies work together effectively, aligning policies and resources to enhance security and streamline travel processes.

The discussions also touched on the need for improved security measures, particularly in light of potential threats from drones at large gatherings. Jimenez called for better coordination among agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to mitigate these risks.

In conclusion, the committee's meeting underscored the urgency of reforming the U.S. travel system to ensure it is secure, efficient, and welcoming to legitimate travelers. As the world watches, the U.S. has the opportunity to set a global standard for travel security and hospitality, but this will require significant planning and investment in the coming years. The committee looks forward to hearing from witnesses on how to turn this vision into reality.