Syracuse Sun

Dr. Corri Zoli, director of research at Syracuse University’s Institute for National Security & Counterterrorism, has shared her insights on the increased security measures in New Orleans for the upcoming Super Bowl. President Trump is expected to attend, marking him as the first sitting president to do so.

Dr. Zoli commented, “A well-known sports fan, President Trump reportedly will be the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl. Public sentiment is predictably polarized, but some of the issues raised define both our historical moment and reveal the priorities of a still-new Administration: this includes Trump’s intention to present himself as a public leader in the style of Andrew Jackson who looks out for and participates in the ordinary and economic interests of regular Americans, distancing himself from cosmopolitan political elites."

She further elaborated on Trump's efforts to restore confidence in law enforcement and security institutions such as "the FBI, the Secret Service, and the military," noting a recent increase in military recruitment after several lean years. Dr. Zoli highlighted voter concerns about government security overreach both domestically and internationally.

Security coordination at the event poses challenges; however, Trump's attendance may demonstrate confidence in local and federal law enforcement partnerships. This follows a recent terrorist attack by ISIS supporter Shamsud-Din Jabbar on New Year’s Day in New Orleans.

New Orleans has conducted an after-action review addressing communication and preparedness issues from that incident. Critics have voiced concerns about Trump's presence creating additional security challenges, but Dr. Zoli noted that "Trump will likely use the opportunity in his characteristic way of claiming a very large public stage for his agenda.”