Gonzalez: We need smooth cross-border travel during FIFA World Cup

Dear Secretary Mullin:

I write to express concern as the 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to significantly increase wait times for cargo and pedestrian crossing between the United States and Mexico border. While I am excited that the United States is a host country and the tournament is projected to generate over $17 billion in gross domestic product, significant passenger traffic surges, heightened security measures, and increased inspection protocols will cause disruptions to border lives and supply chains if proper measures are not put in place.

As you know, South Texas will serve as an important corridor for the host cities of Dallas, Texas, Houston, Texas, and Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. With 104 matches scheduled to take place across North America, we can expect a significant increase in cross-border travel from visitors, workers, and fans alike – on top of our current wait times. Our country and our neighbors are excited by the cultural and economic significance of hosting such a meaningful global event, but this enthusiasm is tempered by legitimate concerns of cross‑border traffic disruptions and long wait times that will interrupt travel between our nations.

Many of my constituents, as well as the local and international businesses operating in border communities, rely on timely cross-border travel to meet their commercial, educational, medical and personal obligations. Cross-border traffic disruptions or prolonged wait times could create significant operational bottlenecks that would have negative economic impacts on our community and the lives of countless South Texans. These interruptions will certainly degrade the quality of this once in a lifetime sporting event.

Due to these concerns, I request the following information to better understand what specific measures are underway to ensure that increased World Cup–related traffic does not disrupt cross‑border mobility for South Texas and other border communities.

1. What steps is the U.S. Department of Homeland Security taking to ensure proper levels of staffing at all ports of entry?
2. Are there plans to extend hours of operation, open additional lanes or deploy additional supplemental personnel and infrastructure to accommodate the surge in demand?
3. Is the Department coordinating with local and Mexican authorities to maintain efficient movement?
   1. If so, how is this coordination being carried out; and what specific joint plans are in place to ensure smooth, timely movement in both directions?
4. What measures is the Administration implementing to ensure that individuals lawfully crossing the U.S.–Mexico border are not subjected to punitive detention, improper secondary inspections, or other actions that could infringe upon their statutory or constitutional rights?
5. How is the Department ensuring that immigration enforcement activities, particularly searches of private property or personal devices, are consistent with Fourth Amendment protections, including the requirements for warrants, consent, and exigent circumstances?

If no measures are in place, I urge the Department of Homeland Security to designate a contingency plan to ensure the proper flow of traffic, smooth wait times, and efficient lines during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,

Vicente Gonzalez

Member of Congress

Editor's Note: The above letter was penned by U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez. It was sent to Markwayne Mullin, United States Secretary of Homeland Security.