Feds Have Restricted Power to Take Down Drones Observed in New Jersey, According to Mayorkas
The Secretary of Homeland Security provided a detailed interview on Sunday regarding the recent surge in sightings.
Alejandro Mayorkas, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), shared an update on Sunday about a series of apparent drone sightings in New Jersey, emphasizing that the federal government will pursue measures to alleviate concerns, though he indicated that officials lack the authority to shoot down the drones.
In recent weeks, numerous residents and local officials in New Jersey have reported drones flying overhead, generating significant speculation and scrutiny. Some federal lawmakers have urged that the drones be either shot down or captured; however, the federal authorities have yet to reveal the origin of the unmanned aerial vehicles.
Mayorkas remarked that the sightings are indeed drones, but acknowledged that some reported objects are “manned aircraft that are often confused with drones,” reinforcing earlier comments from the FBI, DHS, and the White House. He did not provide any additional specifics.
“There’s no doubt that drones are being sighted,” the secretary stated, adding that “thousands” of drones are operated daily across the U.S., encompassing both commercial and recreational vehicles. He also noted that in September 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration adjusted federal regulations to permit drones to fly during evening hours.
“I want to assure the American public that we are actively addressing this situation. We are collaborating closely with state and local authorities,” Mayorkas said. “It is vital, as we have reiterated for several years, that we need Congress to grant us additional authorities to manage the drone issue effectively. Our current authorities are limited and set to expire; we require both extension and expansion.”
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He further encouraged Congress to grant state and local authorities greater authority to manage drones “under federal oversight.”
When asked by Stephanopoulos whether the drones should be destroyed, following a social media post from President-elect Donald Trump this past weekend, Mayorkas indicated that the U.S. government has limitations in this respect.
Mayorkas responded on Sunday by stating that the U.S. government is “constrained by our authorities” when it comes to drone elimination, highlighting that over 8,000 drones operate across the country daily.
“Certain agencies within the Department of Homeland Security have the capability to do that, as well as external agencies,” he continued, “but we require those authorities to be broadened as well.”
The Homeland Security Secretary emphasized that U.S. officials have not found evidence suggesting that the drones are operated by foreign adversaries, reflecting statements made by the White House and the FBI. Additionally, he suggested that the drones have not been spotted over any sensitive or restricted areas.
“When a drone enters restricted airspace, we respond very swiftly,” Mayorkas commented, noting that he is set to leave office on January 20, 2025. “In fact, when an individual in California flew a drone over restricted airspace, that person was swiftly identified, apprehended, and is facing charges from federal authorities. We take immediate action when someone violates restricted airspace regulations.”
The suspect, named Yinpiao Zhou, was apprehended at the San Francisco International Airport just before he was scheduled to board a flight back to China on December 9, officials indicate.
