NJ Republicans demand federal action as drone sightings raise alarms across state
TRENTON, N.J. — Amid growing public concern over unexplained drone activity in New Jersey, the state Senate Republican Caucus issued a statement Wednesday urging immediate federal intervention to address the sightings, which they say have left residents anxious and without answers.
The drones, observed in various parts of the state over the past three weeks, have prompted investigations by the New Jersey State Police and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness. However, Republican lawmakers criticized the lack of federal support and clarity on the incidents, calling the Biden Administration’s response “slow-rolled” and inadequate.
“It is irresponsible for federal representatives to assert that there is no threat to public safety while simultaneously asserting they have no information about who is operating the drones, where they originate, or where they are going,” the caucus said in a statement. They called on Governor Phil Murphy to demand stronger federal engagement and authorization to neutralize drones deemed a potential threat.
The Republican delegation, led by Assembly members DiAnne Gove, Brian Rumpf, and Senator Christopher Connors, attended a briefing Wednesday morning conducted by state police and homeland security officials. They acknowledged the professionalism of law enforcement but expressed frustration over the lack of definitive information. Officials noted that some sightings may be misidentified manned aircraft, complicating the investigation, and emphasized that shooting down drones remains a federal crime.
Lawmakers stressed the need for national intelligence agencies to deepen coordination with state and local authorities to determine the drones’ origins and purpose. “This is especially critical and timely when considering the increasing scope of drone sightings, the locations in question, and sheer lack of information as to the drones’ purpose,” the Republican delegation said.
Residents concerned about the drone sightings have been encouraged to report any information to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov.
