In anticipation of the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games, the White House is urging Congress to grant expanded authority to disable or destroy unmanned aerial drones that could threaten large public gatherings. This legislative push is part of a broader initiative to tighten security as the U.S. prepares to host these global sporting events.

The proposed legislation, which has been shared with lawmakers, aims to empower federal departments such as Homeland Security and Justice, alongside state and local law enforcement, with broader counter-drone capabilities. According to documents obtained by POLITICO, these powers would be applicable at events like the upcoming World Cup and Olympics, as well as at critical infrastructure sites and correctional facilities.

Currently, federal agencies are only authorized to take action against drones deemed a threat to high-risk facilities such as government buildings and power plants. The White House argues that the existing laws are insufficient for the types of security challenges posed by drones at major international events.

However, the proposal has encountered opposition from key figures such as Senator Ted Cruz, who chairs a committee overseeing aviation policy. Cruz has expressed concerns about the potential for federal overreach, labeling the move as an "extremely problematic" expansion of government power.

Despite this, the administration is moving forward with its security plans. Earlier this month, it launched a $500 million initiative to support state and local governments in developing their own anti-drone strategies, indicating the seriousness of the drone threat as perceived by federal authorities.

Negotiations are continuing behind the scenes, with the White House Office of Legislative Affairs actively working on the language of the bill since September. The administration has engaged with the offices of Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, hoping to finalize the text as part of a must-pass defense policy bill.

The urgency of the matter is underscored by statements from Senator Eric Schmitt, whose state of Missouri will host several World Cup matches. Schmitt's office has called for immediate congressional action to address the risks posed by unauthorized drones.

As the legislative process unfolds, the outcome remains uncertain. With the World Cup and Olympic Games on the horizon, the debate over how best to protect the public while respecting privacy and limiting federal power is set to intensify.