The Biden administration and lawmakers are facing increasing calls to address the puzzling drone sightings reported in New Jersey and other states. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has joined the chorus, urging action to resolve this issue.
In a statement on Saturday, Hochul emphasized the need for Congress to pass the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act. This legislation aims to enhance the authority of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in tackling threats posed by unmanned aerial systems and to grant the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) additional oversight capabilities.
Drone activity across northeastern U.S. raises calls for federal intervention
She further stated that it is vital to extend these powers to New York State and its counterparts. Until such powers are conferred upon state and local officials, she urged the Biden administration to allocate more federal law enforcement resources to New York and its neighboring areas to safeguard critical infrastructure and public safety.
This push for action comes in response to an increase in drone sightings in New Jersey and New York, along with reports from Philadelphia’s WPVI-TV about similar occurrences in Delaware and Philadelphia counties.
On Wednesday, the Pentagon confirmed that there is no indication that any foreign entities are behind the mysterious drones, which have also been seen near sensitive military locations in the U.S.
In light of the drone activity, lawmakers from the northeastern U.S., where these sightings have been reported, sent a letter on Thursday to the FBI, DHS, and FAA, requesting a briefing regarding the situation.
New Jersey Assemblyman Mike Inganamort also echoed these concerns, urging the Biden administration to take decisive action in response to the rising number of drone sightings.
Meanwhile, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas downplayed the sightings, stating that the drones are not considered “nefarious” or a “threat.” He reiterated the White House’s stance earlier this week, assuring the public that any cause for concern will be communicated transparently.
In a post on Truth Social, former President Trump called for the drones to be shot down, expressing skepticism about the government’s awareness of the sightings.
He questioned, “Mystery drone sightings all over the country. Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge? I don’t think so!” Trump concluded by insisting that the public deserves to be informed and warned, “Otherwise, [shoot] them down!!!”
