Swalwell Pushes for Immigration Protections During World Cup
Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, referenced his time as a college soccer player while advocating for a series of bills aimed at preventing immigration enforcement near World Cup venues. In June, he introduced the “Safe Passage to World Cup Act,” highlighting the importance of allowing fans from around the globe to attend this major sporting event without fear.
Several cities across the U.S., including New Jersey, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, and Washington, are scheduled to host World Cup games. Swalwell, along with other committee members, aims to address what they perceive as racial and linguistic profiling affecting attendees. “How can our country host a World Cup while expelling fans from around the world?” he asked in a statement.
Swalwell, who played soccer at the Division I level for Campbell University, had aspirations of becoming a professional player before injuries changed his path. Eventually, he shifted his focus to a political career, influenced by his internship with a congresswoman in Washington, D.C.
The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that federal funds are not allocated to immigration enforcement actions on public transportation in cities hosting FIFA events from June 11 to July 19. It aims to limit aggressive pursuits of suspects unless there’s an imminent threat to public safety.
“We want to present our best selves, not have police overwhelming public spaces,” Swalwell stated, expressing concern over potential ICE operations invading everyday commutes. He described it as shameful for the Department of Homeland Security to use such occasions for political maneuvering.
Swalwell serves on the Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events with the House Homeland Security Committee. Another committee member, Rep. Nellie Powe from New Jersey, plans to introduce a related measure called the “Save the World Cup Act,” which would prohibit immigration enforcement near events and improve protections for attendees. Powe emphasized the need for families to feel secure while participating in this global event.
In the context of rising concerns, Rep. LaMonica McIver (D.N.J.) is also working on legislation aimed at preventing state resources from being used for immigration enforcement at World Cup sites. She stressed that fans, regardless of background, should not feel intimidated by authorities while enjoying the festivities.
A spokesperson for the DHS reassured that there would be collaboration with local and federal partners to uphold federal law during the World Cup. They stated that lawful international visitors should not worry about enforcement actions, emphasizing that immigration enforcement is only applicable to individuals illegally present in the U.S. However, they also criticized the legislation as misguided, insisting foreign travelers need to prepare adequately for a hassle-free experience.
