New Jersey Leader Calls for Limited State of Emergency Amid Mysterious Drone Sightings

A growing concern over mysterious drone sightings in New Jersey has prompted a state senator to call for a limited state of emergency. Republican state Sen. Jon Bramnick urged the state to ban all drones until the public receives an explanation for the multiple sightings, which have been reported in various parts of the state, including over President-elect Donald Trump’s Bedminster golf course and near military research sites.

Reports of large drones, described as larger than those typically used by hobbyists, have been increasing since November 18, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) first receiving reports in Morris County. The sightings have extended to areas such as Mendham, Parsippany, and Hunterdon County, with 49 reports documented on Sunday alone, according to Gov. Phil Murphy.

The White House has confirmed that President Biden is aware of the situation, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the FBI are actively investigating. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the drones are not foreign-controlled, but the exact origin and purpose remain unknown. “We are certainly aware. The president is aware, so we are closely tracking the activity and coordinating closely with relevant agencies, including DHS and FBI, to continue to investigate these incidents,” Jean-Pierre said.

Federal lawmakers, including Sen. Cory Booker and Rep. Jeff Van Drew, have expressed concern and called for greater transparency. Booker penned a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, seeking a comprehensive briefing on the drone activity. Van Drew criticized the lack of transparency, stating that constituents need and deserve answers to alleviate their safety and privacy concerns.

The FBI has acknowledged that they know very little about the drones and have called on the public for additional information. The agency has also issued a plea for tips, encouraging the public to report any substantive leads. Law enforcement’s ability to address the drone activity is limited and primarily reactive rather than proactive.

The Picatinny Arsenal, a major U.S. Army research and development facility, has reported multiple confirmed sightings, but officials have confirmed that these are not related to any activities at the arsenal. The FAA has issued temporary flight restrictions over areas near Trump’s Bedminster golf club and Picatinny Arsenal to address the situation.

Local officials, including the mayors of 21 towns in New Jersey, have demanded action from Gov. Murphy and are set to receive a briefing from the New Jersey State Police and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness on the matter.