New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s plea for federal assistance to investigate mysterious drone sightings exposes the state’s vulnerability to potential airspace threats.
But why would the federal government care to listen?
At a Glance
- Gov. Murphy requests Biden administration’s help to investigate increasing drone sightings
- State and local law enforcement face limitations in addressing potential drone threats
- No evidence suggests national security threat or foreign entity involvement – or so they say
- Drones spotted near sensitive locations, including Trump’s golf course in Bedminster
- Some lawmakers suggest military intervention to “shoot down” drones
New Jersey’s Drone Dilemma: A Call for Federal Intervention
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has taken a big step in addressing the growing concern over mysterious drone sightings across the state. Governor Murphy has called upon the Biden administration to allocate more resources to investigate these unexplained aerial phenomena.
But so far, it’s gone unanswered.
The surge in drone sightings has sparked public concern since reports began last month. Witnesses have described seeing anywhere from 4 to 180 drones operating from dusk until 11 p.m., with some appearing larger than typical hobbyist models. These sightings have occurred near sensitive locations, including Picatinny Arsenal and former President Trump’s golf course in Bedminster, raising questions about potential security risks.
NJ governor asks Biden for more federal resources on drone sightings https://t.co/26Vkj7LR9f
— The Hill (@thehill) December 13, 2024
Federal Oversight: A Necessity in Uncharted Airspace
Governor Murphy’s appeal for federal assistance stems from the recognition that state and local authorities are ill-equipped to handle this emerging threat. Current laws and policies severely limit their ability to effectively investigate and respond to potential drone-related issues.
As Murphy pointedly stated, “This leaves action surrounding the (drones) squarely on the shoulders of the federal government.”
Despite ongoing investigations by the FBI, FAA, and other agencies, confirming these sightings through electronic detection has proven challenging. Many reported drone sightings have been identified as manned aircraft, highlighting the difficulty in accurately distinguishing between various aerial vehicles. Additionally, no confirmed sightings have occurred in restricted airspace, and some reports may involve repeated sightings of the same drone.
So it’s uncertain what people are seeing so far.
But if the government tells us they don’t know, but that they also don’t believe they’re a threat, then we know they’re lying about something. How could they possibly know they’re not a threat if they don’t know what they are?
