Congressman Mark Alford, who represents Missouri’s 4th district in the U.S. Congress, has called on President Donald J. Trump to keep Kansas City as a host city for the 2026 World Cup. This comes after President Trump announced his administration is reconsidering cities with crime issues as potential hosts.
In a letter addressed to President Trump, Alford expressed gratitude for the president’s focus on law and order and referenced recent comments about the safety of other host cities such as Boston and Seattle. Alford stated:
“I am writing today to thank you for your continued leadership and your unwavering commitment to restoring law and order in our country. I have been proud to stand with you as a law-and-order conservative, and I am even prouder to see the decisive actions you have taken to protect American families from the failed policies of radical left-wing mayors. Your recent comments regarding the safety and preparedness of Boston and Seattle, two host cities for the 2026 World Cup, were absolutely justified.
“I represent the suburbs of another proud 2026 World Cup host city, Kansas City. While Kansas City has significant challenges with crime due to years of failed policies at the local level, I want to make clear that the Kansas City 2026 host committee has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of fans, athletes, and visitors. They have worked closely and cooperatively with Andrew Giuliani, Chairman of the White House FIFA World Cup 2026 Task Force, and have consistently met every safety and security benchmark required by the federal government and by FIFA.
“In addition, Kansas City has already invested millions to prepare for the games and to showcase our nation at its best. Unlike many coastal host cities, Kansas City stands alone as the only host city in the geographic heart of the United States. Removing Kansas City would mean holding an American World Cup without a single match in the Midwest. This would be a loss not only to Missouri, Kansas, and the surrounding region, but also to the spirit of the event itself.
“Kansas City is projected to generate roughly 695 million dollars in economic impact from hosting World Cup matches. Stripping the city of this opportunity, after years of preparation and compliance, would have devastating consequences for the local economy and for the hardworking families I represent.
“I strongly urge you to keep Kansas City as a 2026 World Cup host city. The world deserves to see the beauty, hospitality, and strength of the American Midwest, and Kansas City has worked diligently to meet every requirement placed before it.
“Thank you again for your leadership and for your commitment to putting America First.”
Alford emphasized that despite ongoing concerns about violent crime in Kansas City—an issue he attributes partly to local policies—the city’s preparations include major investments intended both for public safety during events and economic development.
Kansas City’s position as a central location makes it unique among U.S. host cities; if removed from consideration there would be no matches held in America’s Midwest region during this global sporting event.
Mark Alford has served Missouri’s 4th District since replacing Vicky Hartzler in 2023 (https://alford.house.gov/about). He was born in Baytown, Texas in 1963 and currently resides in Lake Winnebago. Alford graduated from University of Texas at Austin with a BA degree in 1988.
