DHS Sec. Noem assures exhaustive security and federal assistance for Super Bowl LIX

"We've seen failures across the country of agencies not talking well and not working well, and it's just not going to happen anymore, not on my watch," Noem said.

Published: February 3, 2025 11:21pm

(The Center Square) -

(The Center Square) − U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell assured the public that Super Bowl LIX is being provided the most exhaustive security measures.

Scores of armed military personnel and police officers, armored vehicles, enhanced security zones, X-ray machines and training for identifying suspicious activity have all been promised by state and federal officials.

On Monday, Noem outlined the federal government's commitment to ensuring effective interagency communication.

"We've seen failures across the country of agencies not talking well and not working well, and it's just not going to happen anymore, not on my watch," Noem said.

Landry highlighted the state's evolving response since a recent security incident.

"We went from an investigation to a recovery to taking care of victims' families and then putting on an event being the Sugar Bowl, and then here we are, many weeks later, having to put on… the biggest sporting event in the history of the world," Landry said.

As New Orleans police struggle with record low staffing, the assistance from the Federal government may provide more comfort to attendees, visitors and residents.

Super Bowl LIX has been granted federal status as a Special Event Assessment Rating 1 event, which in past events has included "explosive detection canine teams, cyber risk assessments, venue screening and field intelligence teams, and air security and tactical operations support."

Much of the security measures will remain through Mardi Gras season, though Landry said last week that for now the focus will remain on the Super Bowl.

Cantrell commended the impact of the SEAR 1 security rating, saying that "you get incredible resources and partnerships for this city, for those events that just aren't available at all with a lower rating."

Landry continued to encourage the public to remain observant and alert. "If you see something, say something," Landry said.

Officials confirmed that certain items, from backpacks to coolers will be restricted in designated security zones and every person entering is subject to search and seizure.

"You are free to refuse the search, but you are not free to enter," Landry said last week.

Security operations will begin on Wednesday and extend through Feb. 10, covering Super Bowl weekend, with continued measures for Mardi Gras. With heightened security classifications, additional federal support and emergency measures will remain in effect through the end of the month.

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