New York Governor Kathy Hochul has publicly criticized the Biden administration for its handling of ongoing drone activities disrupting the East Coast. As a result, this issue notably led to the shutdown of Stewart Airfield.
Furthermore, a spate of mysterious drone activities across the East Coast has prompted urgent calls for federal intervention and legislation, Mail Online reported.
Since the end of November, local governments have observed unusual drone sightings nightly over New York City and northern New Jersey. These drones, which are perceived as a serious concern, have yet to be identified in terms of their origin or purpose.
Governor Kathy Hochul's concerns followed the temporary closure of Stewart Airfield's airspace, which lasted more than an hour on a Friday. Consequently, this situation exacerbated safety and security worries among East Coast residents.
As a result of this disruption, Governor Hochul, along with other Democratic Senators from New York and New Jersey like Kirsten Gillibrand, Chuck Schumer, Cory Booker, and Andy Kim, reached out to federal agencies. They penned a letter demanding clarity and action from the FBI, FAA, and Homeland Security.
In addition, federal authorities have recorded over 3,000 instances of unaccounted-for drones, stretching as far as the Atlantic Ocean. Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey described these drones as sophisticated and noted the widespread frustration due to the lack of clarity about their operations.
Amidst this growing unease, the Biden administration has maintained that the drones do not pose a threat to public safety or national security. Local experiences and observations on the ground challenge this position.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has commented on the situation, stating that some reports could stem from the misidentification of drones as manned aircraft. This has not assuaged public concern or political pressure for decisive action.
New Jersey Senator Andy Kim shared his direct observations of drones around Round Valley Reservoir, where drones often appeared at night displaying either solid white or intermittently flashing red and green lights.
By mid-November, Governor Hochul recognized the pressing need for a structured response and directed the New York State Intelligence Center to commence a thorough investigation into the drone sightings.
In her appeal for federal engagement, Governor Hochul emphasized the necessity for Congress to pass the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act. This legislation would empower state law enforcement to tackle the drone dilemma more effectively.
In expressing her frustration and urgency over the federal response, Governor Hochul remarked, "The bizarre episode 'has gone too far'." She insisted that the federal government "must step in" to manage the escalating situation adequately.
The appearance of these drones has unsettled local communities. According to a common statement issued by senators from both New Jersey and New York, "Since late November, communities in the New York City area and northern New Jersey have reported several incidents of unattributable drone sightings at night, alarming both residents and local law enforcement."
These concerns have triggered over 3,000 tips to the FBI since November 18, the date of the first recorded sighting. Reports have come from various regions, including New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and Orange County, New York.
As this issue continues to unfold, federal agencies are responding, and stakeholders are closely monitoring the enactment of new legislation. Resolving this matter remains crucial not only for those directly affected but also for the broader implications regarding airspace security and public safety on the East Coast.
