Feds Expected in South Bay During Super Bowl 60

Local officials raise concerns about potential ICE presence at the big game

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:39pm

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Federal agents are anticipated to be in the South Bay ahead of Super Bowl 60, as the nation grapples with increased violence related to immigration enforcement. There's been local concern that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will be out in force during the national sports event taking place on February 8 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.

Why it matters

The potential ICE presence at the Super Bowl has raised concerns among local officials and immigrant advocates about the impact on vulnerable families in the South Bay area. There are fears that the heightened immigration enforcement could increase tension and fear in the community, disrupting people's ability to participate in the major event.

The details

According to San Jose Councilmember Peter Ortiz, an internal memo from the Department of Homeland Security indicates that dozens of ICE agents are expected to be deployed to Levi's Stadium, its parking lots, and surrounding areas during the Super Bowl. This would be the largest concentration of ICE agents Santa Clara County has seen since President Trump's campaign of mass deportations. Local officials and immigrant advocates are preparing to respond, with the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors president warning that ICE agents will be arrested if they engage in unlawful behavior, and the Rapid Response Network planning to increase its capacity to document ICE activity and provide support to the community.

  • ICE agents are expected to land at Moffett Federal Airfield on February 6, two days before the Super Bowl.
  • Super Bowl 60 is scheduled to take place on February 8, 2026 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.

The players

Peter Ortiz

San Jose District 5 Councilmember who has been warning the city and community about the potential ICE presence at the Super Bowl.

Otto Lee

President of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, who stated that ICE agents would be arrested if they engage in unlawful behavior at the Super Bowl.

Rapid Response Network

A group of volunteers that documents ICE activity, sends alerts to the community, and provides free emergency legal support for immigrants, which is increasing its capacity during the Super Bowl.

Matt Mahan

San Jose Mayor, who assured residents that the San Jose police officers are there to keep them safe and will not assist with legal immigration enforcement.

Tricia McLaughlin

Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, who stated that the department is committed to working with local and federal partners to ensure the Super Bowl is safe for everyone involved.

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What they’re saying

“The Super Bowl will be coming soon to our county, ICE already said they will be here. Let me be absolutely clear — no one is above the law, there is no such thing as absolute immunity and there is no license to kill. If anyone comes into our county masked, spreading terror, breaking laws or threatening our residents, they will be arrested by our sheriff deputies and police officers.”

— Otto Lee, President of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors (San José Spotlight)

“I know there is immense fear in the community. As our region prepares for Super Bowl and the threat that ICE may conduct enforcement activities in the area, I want to make one thing very clear: our San Jose police officers are here to keep you safe. They cannot and will not interrupt or assist with legal immigration enforcement — but they will protect you, your freedoms and our city.”

— Matt Mahan, San Jose Mayor (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.