The White House on Tuesday clarified the origins of the drone activity reported throughout New Jersey at the end of last year. According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, the drones were authorized to be flown by the Federal Aviation Administration for research and other reasons. Leavitt said President Trump was directly briefed on the issue.
“Many of these drones were also hobbyists, recreational and private individuals who enjoy flying drones,” said Leavitt. “This was not the enemy.”
Reports of the drone activity, including in the vicinity of sensitive locations, prompted intense speculation about their origins and fueled rumors about potential foreign activity and surveillance.
The White House said the update was to dispel fears about the drones.
“There is no reason for the federal government to withhold this information from the public,” said state Sen. Jon Bramnick (R-Union). “The lack of communication from the Biden administration led to very real concern from New Jersey residents. Government transparency is paramount and I appreciate the Trump administration providing this information to the public.”
