Some lawmakers say that the Department of Homeland Security shutdown is hindering coordination and safety preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup games across the country.
The department has operated without full funding from Congress for more than 100 days over the past year, interrupting agencies’ coordination with city and state officials, delaying trainings and leading to an exodus of DHS staff ahead of the tournament.
“You’re talking about an international event in the area most targeted for terrorism,” said Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York, which is listed as a host site for the games. “I think it is insane that we are in a situation where the department responsible for coordinating the security of this event has been shut down for over 110 days. At a time we’re at war, by the way.”