Homeland Security Denies Planned ICE Enforcement at Super Bowl

Federal officials tell local law enforcement no immigration operations are scheduled for the big game

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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The Department of Homeland Security has told local law enforcement that there are no planned ICE enforcement operations associated with Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This comes after earlier reports that federal immigration agents could be present at the event, raising concerns among community groups.

Why it matters

The presence of immigration enforcement at major events like the Super Bowl can create fear and distrust among immigrant communities, discouraging them from attending or participating in the festivities. This could undermine the inclusive spirit of the Super Bowl and negatively impact the local economy and community.

The details

Last month, a TMZ Sports report indicated that the Department of Homeland Security was planning 'enforcement actions' at the Super Bowl. However, Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Jonsen and the Santa Clara Police Department have since confirmed that federal officials have told them no immigration enforcement operations are currently planned in connection with the Super Bowl or related events. The NFL's chief security officer also stated there are no known planned ICE or immigration enforcement operations scheduled around the game.

  • On January 26, a TMZ Sports report indicated Homeland Security was planning enforcement actions at the Super Bowl.
  • On February 4, Sheriff Jonsen said he spoke with DHS officials who confirmed no immigration enforcement operations are planned.

The players

Bob Jonsen

The Santa Clara County Sheriff who sought clarity from federal officials on immigration enforcement plans for the Super Bowl.

Eric Lagergren

A spokesman for the Santa Clara Police Department, who said federal partners have told the city no immigration enforcement is planned for the Super Bowl.

Tricia McClaughlin

An assistant at the Department of Homeland Security who previously told TMZ Sports that local officials could expect ICE enforcement activities at the Super Bowl.

Cathy Lanier

The National Football League's chief security officer, who stated there are no known planned ICE or immigration enforcement operations scheduled around the Super Bowl.

Sean Allen

The local NAACP president who condemned the NFL's stance on potential ICE activity at Super Bowl events.

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What they’re saying

“There are no known, no planned ICE or immigration enforcement operations that are scheduled around the Super Bowl or any of the Super Bowl related events – we are confident of that.”

— Cathy Lanier, National Football League Chief Security Officer (The Mercury News)

“Our deputies are committed to upholding the Constitution, protecting public safety, and treating every individual with dignity and fairness. The Sheriff's Office does not direct, oversee, or participate in federal immigration enforcement operations. We do not collaborate with ICE on civil immigration enforcement and typically do not receive advance notice of their activities.”

— Bob Jonsen, Santa Clara County Sheriff (LinkedIn)

What’s next

The Santa Clara Police Department and Sheriff's Office will continue to coordinate with federal partners on overall Super Bowl security, but have confirmed they will not be involved in or provide advance notice of any immigration enforcement actions.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and the importance of clear communication between federal, state, and local authorities to ensure major events like the Super Bowl remain safe and welcoming for all attendees, regardless of immigration status.