BARGERSVILLE, Ind. — Sen. Todd Young found himself at a Belgian-style brewhouse in a suburb near Indianapolis, preparing to watch Canada compete against Bosnia and Herzegovina. He was a bit tired, having dealt with a storm that forced his flight from Washington to divert to Columbus, Ohio.
After his flight was redirected to Columbus after midnight, Young stayed overnight before flying to Indianapolis. He planned to spend just one night at home before heading to New Jersey on Saturday for the Brazil vs. Morocco match. There, he would lead a fundraiser for a Republican colleague, whose identity he chose not to disclose.
As co-chair of the Congressional Soccer Caucus and an avid soccer fan, Young was determined not to miss the tournament. Known for his soccer skills, including executing a scissors kick, he joined POLITICO for the afternoon to watch a game and discuss global politics.
“I hope the United States makes a strong showing,” Young said, “so that soccer in the U.S. can use this as a catalyst for growth over the next decade.” He had reserved the evening to watch the U.S. open against Paraguay with his daughter, who also plays soccer.
In addition to his soccer enthusiasm, Young is actively pressuring Democrats regarding the extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which is set to expire. Democrats have resisted even a temporary extension following Donald Trump’s nomination of Bill Pulte, who lacks national security experience, as acting DNI.
Young warned of potential security issues without an extension, saying, “It would be a lot of finger-pointing. You should just pull out every stop right now to make sure that there are no problems.”
When Canada fell behind 1-0 in the 21st minute, Young focused more on the impressive nature of Jovo Lukić’s set piece goal than on the defeat of close allies. “Hell of a goal: slip header, near-bar run,” he remarked, as he enjoyed a Belgian-style blonde beer.
As halftime neared, the conversation shifted to the political arena of 2028, noting that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and California Gov. Gavin Newsom were expected to share box seats. “Oh, that’s good for the country,” Young commented, “Good for Marco. And good for Gavin.”
Contemplating the future of the GOP, Young was hesitant to choose between potential party leaders for 2028. When asked about his support for either Rubio or Vice President JD Vance, a fellow Midwestern politician, he responded, “Oh, shit,” before concluding, “I’m Team USA, brother. I’m Team USA.”
