BEDMINSTER, N.J. — Former President Donald Trump hinted at possible government secrecy surrounding recent reports of drones flying over critical infrastructure in New Jersey, saying the U.S. military and federal authorities know the source of the drones but have chosen not to share details with the public.
In an interview, Trump was asked about drone sightings in New Jersey, including reports of unauthorized activity near sensitive sites such as the Salem and Hope Creek nuclear power plants. “Our military knows where they took off from,” Trump said. “If it’s a garage, they can go right into that garage. They know where it came from and where it went, and for some reason, they don’t want to comment.”
Trump suggested that authorities are intentionally keeping the public “in suspense” and called on them to release information. “Something strange is going on, and for some reason, they don’t want to tell the people, and they should,” he said.
The former president stopped short of confirming whether he had been briefed on the matter but expressed confidence in the military’s ability to track and identify the drones. He speculated that the activity does not appear to be linked to any foreign adversary, saying, “I can’t imagine it’s the enemy, because if it was the enemy, they’d blast it out … even if they were late, they’d blast it.”
The comments follow a series of recent drone sightings in New Jersey that have raised questions about the intent and origin of the unmanned aircraft. Earlier this week, PSE&G, the operator of the Salem and Hope Creek nuclear power plants in Salem County, confirmed it had contacted authorities after drones were spotted flying over the facilities. A spokesperson for the company said, “The safety and security of our employees, customers, and communities are our top priority, and we will continue to work with authorities.”
Trump also noted that drones have been seen near Bedminster, home to his private golf club. Although he did not specify the details of these sightings, he acknowledged they were close enough to his property to make him rethink his plans to visit the area. “They happen to be over Bedminster. They’re very close to Bedminster. I think maybe I won’t spend the weekend in Bedminster. I’ve decided to cancel my trip,” Trump said.
The federal government has not publicly commented on the recent sightings, nor have they disclosed any conclusions about the drones’ origin or intent. While drones are frequently used for recreational purposes, unauthorized flights over critical infrastructure, such as nuclear power plants, are prohibited under federal law.
The lack of official information has fueled speculation, with many questioning whether the drones pose a threat or are part of a larger issue that officials have yet to address. Trump’s remarks, hinting at possible secrecy, have added to the growing mystery.
As public concern mounts, officials remain silent on the sightings, leaving residents and observers to wonder about the purpose behind the drone activity and why details are being withheld.