Mullin congratulates the security of the World Cup and the cooperation of the local organization in Seattle
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Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin praised the massive security effort surrounding the World Cup, and the cooperation between federal and local law enforcement as “amazing.”
In an exclusive interview with Fox News reporter Jonathan Hunt, Mullin said he will not sleep well until July 20, the day after the World Cup finals, but speaking at Seattle Stadium, Mullin said he was happy that security operations are going well even in green cities like Seattle and Los Angeles. And he hopes leaders in those cities can learn from that.
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United States fans react during a march to the match before the World Cup Round of 16 soccer match between the United States and Belgium in Seattle, Monday, July 6, 2026. (Eric Hiller/AP)
“We may disagree on a lot of things about immigration and maybe other issues,” the secretary said, “but when it comes to protecting the fans and the fan experience here, in LA or in other places around the country we are really working together and I hope we can continue that between the state, the state and the local cooperation. We can do a great job for our cities when we work together.”
Millions of soccer fans around the world are seeing the US for the first time and many, given the news of the Trump administration in their own countries, seem to be expecting a high-profile security operation. But that’s not what they found.
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Fans react before the World Cup Round of 16 soccer match between the United States and Belgium in Seattle, Monday, July 6, 2026. (Maddy Grassy/AP)
Much of the work is done underground or behind the scenes, a very deliberate choice, Mullin said.
“We want people to enjoy their time,” he added. “We don’t want to feel like they’re going to a war zone, but we want to let everyone know that we’re working hard to protect buildings. I don’t care if you’re outside the field or inside the field, but the number of police officers that we have dedicated to this from state, local to other is really amazing, and we’re doing it together.”
Mullin also praised the role of the fans, from the US and overseas, in making this World Cup a safe, and as many say, possibly the best World Cup experience.
“They love it so much, and they love America,” Mullin said. “I mean, we see in the videos, my wife is completely overwhelmed by the number of videos from social media, and the fans that are there from all over the world get to experience the greatness of America, which is what it’s all about. We’re not like any other nation. I don’t care if you drive the country from coast to coast, you see a beautiful world and friendly people in Trump’s 5 because we’re also showing Trump’s vision. Bring the World Cup here to celebrate our 250th birthday.”
US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin and his wife Christie Mullin stand in the stands before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between the United States and Belgium at Seattle Stadium on July 6, 2026. (Agustin Marcarian / Reuters)
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Mullin admits he didn’t know much about football before the World Cup started but like many across the country, he has embraced the game and is loving every minute of it as he and his team work 24/7 to ensure everyone is safe. And looking forward to that good night’s sleep on July 20th.
