In a landmark first press briefing under President Donald Trump’s second administration, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed noteworthy developments regarding the mysterious drone flights over New Jersey in late 2024. Addressing heightened public curiosity and concern, Leavitt confirmed that the drones, previously spotted across the East Coast, were in fact ‘authorized to be flown by the FAA.’
Leavitt, conveying information directly from President Trump, elaborated, After thorough research and study, it has been concluded that the numerous drones flying over New Jersey were permitted by the Federal Aviation Administration. These flights mainly served research purposes and other non-hostile reasons. A significant portion of these drones belonged to hobbyists and recreational users who enjoy this burgeoning technology.
Emphasizing the benign intent behind these operations, she added, Public interest and curiosity may have contributed to the increased presence of these drones. This situation was not orchestrated by any adversarial entities.
During her address on January 28, 2025, in Washington, the press secretary underscored the administration’s commitment to transparency, inviting the public to remain informed through regular updates.
Compounding the intrigue around these airborne devices, former President Trump had earlier implied that the previous Biden administration might have been withholding information. In December, Trump stated, They know where it came from and where it went, yet choose not to disclose it. Our military and the then-president were aware, but there was a deliberate silence, leaving the public in suspense.
Reports of unusual drone activity first emerged on November 19, 2024, initiated by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. The consistently increased drone activity prompted temporary flight restrictions across New Jersey, including areas like Bedminster – home to Trump’s golf club – and over the Picatinny Arsenal military base.
As the story unfolds, the public is advised to stay connected for further developments. This event highlights the delicate balance between technological advancement, regulatory oversight, and public assurance, with drones continuing to be a focal point of both fascination and regulation. With regulations evolving, this instance serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible drone usage and the potential implications on national and personal security.