politics
UFC Freedom 250 at White House set for Super Bowl-level security
The June 14 event on the South Lawn has been classified as a Special Event Assessment Review 1, matching security standards used for the Super Bowl and other major events. Fans on the Ellipse will need tickets and pass TSA-style screening.
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The UFC Freedom 250 event scheduled for June 14 on the South Lawn of the White House has been designated a Special Event Assessment Review 1, placing its security measures on the same level used for the Super Bowl, the Indianapolis 500, and the Kentucky Derby.
Entrance to the South Lawn is invitation-only for approximately 4,000 guests. A larger public viewing area on the Ellipse outside White House grounds will require tickets and TSA-like screening.
Screening and restrictions Tara McLeese, special agent in charge of the Secret Service's Washington Field Office, said fans should arrive early, avoid large bags, and expect security screening. Federal law prohibits civilian drone flights over the National Capital Region.
McLeese advised attendees to leave drones at home. Law enforcement drones will conduct overwatch, and any observed civilian drones should be reported.
Additional events and staffing The Secret Service is coordinating with U.S.
Park Police for the event. The same security protocols, including screening, will apply to the July 4 fireworks display on the National Mall, which has been designated a National Special Security Event for the first time. McLeese noted that past Fourth of July events allowed attendees to bring lawn chairs without prior screening.
This year, designated security checkpoints will be required.
