introduced the Guard the Skies Act, which grants the National Guard explicit authority to counter threats from unmanned aerial systems while remaining under the direction and control of state governors
Empower the National Guard to counter drone threats at special events.
Occurrences
urged the administration to empower the National Guard to address potential drone-related threats
Evidence
On May 7, 2026, the House Record lists H.R. 8697, introduced by Mr. McCaul and colleagues, as a bill to authorize the National Guard to protect certain facilities and assets from unmanned aircraft; it was referred to Armed Services, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Judiciary.
McCaul and Crane sent a letter to Cabinet officials requesting immediate interagency action and urging them to empower the National Guard to address drone-related threats over the 2026 FIFA World Cup host cities.
Assessments
McCaul materially advanced the promise during his current federal term by urging executive action and introducing H.R. 8697, the Guard the Skies Act, to authorize National Guard counter-drone protection for special-event-related facilities and assets. However, the evidence shows only introduction, referral, and executive-branch pressure as of May 2026, not enactment, authorization, or implementation. Because the measure remains pending rather than conclusively failed or delivered, the proper outcome is unresolved with an effort badge.