ICE to Conduct Operations at Super Bowl LX

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that ICE agents will be active at Super Bowl LX, scheduled for February 8 in Santa Clara, California.

Tricia McLaughlin Yoho, the DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, stated to TMZ Sports, “DHS is committed to collaborating with local and federal partners to ensure that the Super Bowl is safe for all participants.” She emphasized that their mission remains unchanged.

This means that ICE will have a notable presence around Levi’s Stadium during the lead-up to the game, which features the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, the champions of their respective conferences.

DHS Counsel Corey Lewandowski indicated last October that enforcement operations would continue as directed by the president and not be put on hold for the Super Bowl. He remarked, “There’s no safe haven for individuals who are here illegally—not at the Super Bowl or anywhere else. We will locate you and deport you. This is a serious issue.”

This directive allegedly follows President Donald Trump’s recent announcement regarding his decision to boycott the Super Bowl, criticizing performers Bad Bunny and Green Day for the halftime show.

In stark contrast, Trump had attended last year’s matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans. He mentioned, “It’s too far away. I would go if it was a little shorter.” His past criticisms of Bad Bunny include claims of unfamiliarity with the artist, calling it “completely ridiculous” for the performers chosen.

Notably, both Bad Bunny and Green Day have voiced their criticism towards Trump. Bad Bunny, a Grammy-winning artist, expressed concerns over ICE’s presence during his performances, revealing that he arranged concerts in Puerto Rico to avoid potential ICE encounters.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the situation surrounding Bad Bunny’s selection during an October meeting, advocating that the choice was well-considered and reflective of the aim to feature globally recognized entertainers. “That’s what we’re striving for,” Goodell noted.

The Super Bowl requires extensive planning from law enforcement to ensure the safety of the thousands expected to attend. McLaughlin-Yoho reaffirmed that “security requires a whole-of-government response consistent with the U.S. Constitution” and reassured that those present legally and abiding by the law have nothing to fear.