Trenton, NJ – New Jersey lawmakers are expressing deep frustration and concern over the state’s mysterious drone sightings, with both Senator Mike Testa (R) and Assemblyman Brian Stack voicing their discontent after a recent briefing with state police.
Senator Mike Testa took to social media to share his frustration after a briefing on the drone activity across New Jersey. “I just left a briefing with State Police on the drone activity happening across the state. It is baffling to me that we have left with more questions than answers, and we still do not know what’s going on,” Testa tweeted. He highlighted the lack of information regarding the ownership, origin, and destination of the drones, criticizing the assertion that there is no imminent threat as lacking credibility given the unknowns. Testa’s posts on X further emphasized the urgency for answers, stating, “New Jerseyans deserve answers and should not have to live like this. It is high time the Biden Administration steps up their game when it comes to keeping us safe. The Trump Administration cannot get here soon enough. Our nation’s security depends on it.”
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy reportedly skipped the briefing. Murphy said there was no threat posed by the mysterious drones, adding that he had no idea who was operating them.
Echoing Testa’s sentiments, Assemblyman Brian Stack provided a scathing review of the same briefing, describing it as the “biggest amateur hour presentation” he had witnessed. In an interview, Stack detailed his frustration, “There were no answers. Every question that was asked by a member of the state legislature, great questions, no answers, no resolution.” He pointed out the absurdity of not pursuing a drone due to safety concerns from a state police helicopter, questioning the effort and strategy of the investigation. Stack, with his background as an Apache helicopter pilot and his role in setting up unmanned aircraft training in the army, expressed disbelief at the lack of actionable intelligence or strategy from the agencies involved, including the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, and state police.
The legislators’ critiques point to a broader issue of transparency and security in handling what has become a significant public concern in New Jersey. Both officials are calling for more decisive action and better coordination among federal and state agencies to address the mysterious drone activities not only for public safety but also to restore confidence among New Jersey residents.
The ongoing situation has raised questions about the capability and response of federal law enforcement and security agencies to emerging threats in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. As these drones continue to appear over sensitive areas, including near military installations and critical infrastructure, the demand for accountability and effective governance is clear.
The comments from both Testa and Stack reflect a growing impatience with the current administration’s handling of the issue and a longing for what they perceive as potentially more robust action under the incoming Trump administration. However, they also underscore the need for immediate, non-partisan solutions to ensure public safety and national security.