Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas finds himself at the center of mounting public concern over mysterious drone sightings across the northeastern United States.
According to the New York Post, Mayorkas attributed the recent surge in drone sightings to a September 2023 Federal Aviation Administration policy change that now permits nighttime drone flights.
The mysterious aerial activity has particularly affected New Jersey residents across Morris, Passaic, Bergen, and Hunterdon counties since November 18. Reports describe drones as large as SUVs hovering over critical infrastructure and following grid-like patterns, raising significant security concerns among local officials and residents.
Federal Response Under Scrutiny
During his appearance on ABC News' "This Week," Mayorkas attempted to reassure the public while acknowledging the legitimacy of some sightings. He emphasized that federal authorities have deployed additional resources, personnel, and technology to assist the New Jersey State Police in investigating these incidents.
The Department of Homeland Security chief stated that while some reports involve actual drones, others may be cases of mistaken identity involving manned aircraft. Mayorkas estimates that approximately 8,000 drones operate daily in U.S. airspace, with over one million registered devices.
Speaking about the federal government's response, Mayorkas said:
There's no question that people are seeing drones. And I want to assure the American public that we, in the federal government, have deployed additional resources, personnel, technology, to assist the New Jersey State Police in addressing the drone sightings.
Political Tensions Rise
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie challenged Mayorkas's explanations after reporting drone activity over his own residence. Christie's firsthand experience contradicts the administration's attempts to downplay the situation.
The phenomenon has sparked bipartisan criticism, with Representative Jeff Van Drew suggesting possible Iranian involvement through a "mothership" off the coast, citing "highly reliable sources." However, Mayorkas firmly denied any foreign involvement in the northeastern sightings.
President-elect Donald Trump has expressed skepticism about the federal government's claimed lack of knowledge regarding the drones' origins, suggesting the possibility of shooting them down. Mayorkas responded by noting that while such actions are typically limited, authorities will act swiftly when drones enter restricted airspace.
Moving Forward With Solutions
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has requested the implementation of a drone detection system for New York and New Jersey. The Democratic leader is also pursuing legislation to enhance state and local authority in addressing drone-related concerns.
Mayorkas emphasized the need for Congressional action, calling for additional authorities to address the drone situation. He specifically advocated for expanding state and local officials' ability to counter drone activity under federal supervision.
The drone activity has now reached Essex County, home to Newark Liberty International Airport and the Port of Newark, raising additional security concerns. Some reports indicate the drones operate at unprecedented altitudes and speeds, further complicating the investigation.
Unfolding Aerial Mystery Demands Action
The surge in drone sightings across the northeastern United States has created a complex situation for federal authorities, with Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas attributing the phenomenon to relaxed FAA regulations while facing skepticism from political figures and the public.
As federal and local authorities continue their investigation, the focus remains on implementing enhanced detection systems and pursuing legislative solutions to address the growing concerns about unauthorized drone activity over critical infrastructure and residential areas.
