In one of the first press briefings of President Donald Trump’s second administration, newly appointed White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed a topic that had captured public attention in late 2024: the unexplained drones seen flying in large numbers across New Jersey.
“The drones flying over New Jersey were authorized to be flown by the FAA,” Leavitt stated. She explained that these flights were for “research and various other reasons” and included drones operated by hobbyists, recreational users, and private individuals. “In time, it got worse due to curiosity. This was not the enemy,” Leavitt added, aiming to alleviate concerns about potential security threats linked to the incidents.
The Trump administration’s response follows months of speculation and confusion surrounding the drone sightings, which began drawing attention in November 2024. Concerns ranged from national security risks to violations of airspace regulations, leaving residents uneasy about the lack of clear answers from federal authorities.
Ahead of his January 20 inauguration, Trump hinted at prioritizing transparency on the matter. During a meeting with Republican governors at Mar-a-Lago on January 9, he vowed to provide a report on the drone situation “about one day” into his administration, emphasizing his frustration with the lack of clarity during the previous administration. “I think it’s ridiculous that they are not telling you about what’s going on with the drones,” he said.
The Biden administration had earlier addressed the issue in a multiagency statement released on December 16, 2024. The Department of Homeland Security, FBI, FAA, and Department of Defense jointly confirmed the presence of drones over New Jersey but characterized the activity as a “combination” of lawful aerial operations. The statement did not provide further specifics, contributing to ongoing speculation and prompting criticism for what some viewed as insufficient transparency.
The new administration’s emphasis on FAA authorization and legitimate recreational use aligns with some conclusions drawn during the Biden administration but appears to aim for a more detailed explanation to dispel public concern. Leavitt’s comments also reflect a broader effort to differentiate hobbyist activities and authorized research flights from potentially nefarious use.
Public reaction to the statements has been mixed. While some New Jersey residents expressed relief that the drones were not tied to any hostile actions, others remain skeptical about the adequacy of the explanations. Advocacy groups for drone safety and privacy have called for more detailed reports to ensure compliance with airspace regulations and to address concerns about unauthorized surveillance.
The Trump administration’s promise of a more comprehensive report on the drone activity will likely be closely watched as the public seeks answers to lingering questions. Why were so many drones operating simultaneously in New Jersey? What specific research or activities required such extensive use of airspace? And how will federal agencies balance transparency with operational security in such cases going forward?
As the situation continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding drone regulation, national security, and the public’s right to information in an era of rapidly advancing technology.