WASHINGTON—The White House confirmed on Tuesday that the drones spotted flying over New Jersey late last year were authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration for research and recreational use.
The drones grabbed national attention due to the amount flying over New Jersey, especially in Bedminster, leaving people wondering if they were from the government or a foreign source.
During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained that the drones posed no national security threat.
“The drones over New Jersey were approved by the FAA for research and other reasons, and many were flown by hobbyists just out for fun,” Leavitt said. “It drew more attention because people were curious, but these were not enemy drones.”
The drone sightings gained more attention in December after President-elect Donald Trump suggested the public should “shoot down” the drones unless the government explained who was controlling them.
Trump also accused the outgoing Biden administration of withholding information, though there was no evidence to support any claims of danger or threat.
Earlier in December, John Kirby, the Biden White House's chief spokesperson, said the drones were most likely a mix of commercial, hobbyist, law enforcement, and even helicopters.
"We haven’t seen anything unusual or any threats to national security," Kirby explained at the time.
Leavitt’s comments on Tuesday should put the issue to rest, reassuring the public that the drones were part of authorized activities and not a security concern.
The FAA has regulations to ensure that drone flights are safe and legal.
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