During a segment of The Hammer and Nigel Show, State Department spokeswoman Paloma Chacón reminded American travelers that the department is working “around the clock, 24/7” to assist citizens abroad. She highlighted the upcoming National Football League game in Paris featuring the Pittsburgh Steelers and urged anyone planning to attend to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Why STEP matters for fans heading to France
STEP is a free service that registers U.S. travelers with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Once enrolled, participants receive real‑time safety alerts, travel‑related updates, and easy access to embassy contact details. “We are here to help the American people,” Chacón said, emphasizing that the program can be a lifeline if conditions change quickly.
Current conditions in France
Chacón acknowledged recent mass demonstrations across France, noting that travelers “should be alarmed and aware of their surroundings.” She stressed that STEP alerts can keep visitors informed about any disruptions, protests, or security concerns that may affect travel plans.
Broader travel safety guidance
In addition to STEP enrollment, the spokeswoman advised fans to locate the nearest U.S. embassy in Paris and to keep the embassy’s phone numbers handy. She reiterated that the State Department maintains a 24‑hour hotline for U.S. citizens in distress.
International incidents and U.S. response
Chacón also addressed the recent airport attack in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which claimed the life of an American citizen. She identified the Houthis as the perpetrators, describing them as a terrorist organization and a proxy of the Iranian regime. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, she said, has condemned the attack. While the United States has a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, Chacón declined to rule out any action President Trump may take in response.
Visa enforcement under the Trump administration
The spokeswoman noted that the State Department has revoked more than 300,000 visas issued under President Trump from foreign nationals who violated visa terms. Crimes cited included drunk driving, theft, burglary and assault. “If you come to the United States on a visa and you commit a crime, you’re going to have that visa revoked,” Chacón said, adding that “visa security is border security.”
How to enroll in STEP
Travelers can sign up for STEP online at travel.state.gov. The enrollment process takes only a few minutes and requires basic personal information and travel dates. Once registered, users receive email and text alerts about safety developments in their destination.
For fans traveling to Paris for the NFL showdown, the State Department’s message is clear: register with STEP, stay informed, and keep embassy contact information close at hand. By taking these steps, Americans can enjoy the game with greater peace of mind.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
