Santa Clara Sheriff Vows No ICE Cooperation for Super Bowl

Sheriff says his department will not assist federal immigration enforcement during the big game

Jan. 29, 2026 at 9:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Jonsen announced that his department will not cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Jonsen stated that his officers will be focused on providing a safe and open environment for the community, and will not support any federal immigration enforcement efforts around the event.

Why it matters

This decision by the Santa Clara Sheriff's Office highlights the ongoing tensions between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, particularly in liberal-leaning areas of California. It also raises questions about security coordination and potential conflicts during major events like the Super Bowl.

The details

In a press conference, Sheriff Jonsen said his department will not change its policies or protocols to work with or support ICE immigration enforcement around the Super Bowl. He stated that his officers will be present to "help" the community and be "open, transparent, and engaged." However, Jonsen also said he wants the federal authorities to notify him of their intended actions, even though he has vowed not to cooperate with them.

  • Super Bowl LX will be played on February 8, 2026 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

The players

Bob Jonsen

The Sheriff of Santa Clara County, California, who announced his department will not work with ICE during the Super Bowl.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal immigration enforcement agency that the Santa Clara Sheriff's Office has said it will not cooperate with around the Super Bowl event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are not going to change our policies or protocols, we will not be working or supporting ICE immigration enforcement, but I want you to again, remember, if you see us out there, we're there to help you, and we will be there.”

— Bob Jonsen, Santa Clara County Sheriff (outkick.com)

What’s next

It remains to be seen how federal immigration authorities will respond to the Santa Clara Sheriff's refusal to cooperate during the Super Bowl. This could lead to conflicts or coordination issues around security and enforcement during the event.

The takeaway

This decision by the Santa Clara Sheriff highlights the ongoing political tensions around immigration enforcement, even during major events like the Super Bowl. It underscores the challenges of balancing public safety, civil liberties, and federal-local cooperation that law enforcement agencies face in diverse communities.