Special Poll
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas stated in an interview on Sunday that Americans will be informed if evidence emerges linking foreign actors to the drones recently spotted over several East Coast states. On Saturday night, two individuals were arrested on Long Island for operating drones in a hazardous manner near Logan Airport, according to the Boston Police Department. However, it remains unclear whether these arrests are connected to the other drone sightings.
Mayorkas confirmed that the presence of drones has been reported and that federal resources have been deployed to support the New Jersey State Police in investigating the matter. He emphasized that, as of now, there is no evidence of foreign involvement in the sightings but assured that if any foreign or criminal connections are identified, the public will be promptly informed.
The mysterious drone sightings have fueled conspiracy theories. Some claim they are part of a staged alien invasion orchestrated by global elites, while Representative Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.) suggested they might be linked to an Iranian mothership. In contrast, Jim Himes (D-Conn.), the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, dismissed these ideas, stating confidently that the drones are not linked to Iranians, Chinese, or Martians.
Mayorkas also speculated that regulatory changes implemented by the FAA in 2023, which allow drones to operate at night, could partly explain the increase in sightings. While President-elect Donald Trump and some lawmakers have suggested the drones be shot down, Mayorkas noted that this approach isn’t straightforward. Only specific federal agencies are authorized to take such actions, and additional congressional authority is needed to allow state and local agencies to address the drone issue effectively.
On Saturday, a Joint Staff spokesperson acknowledged drone activity over two military installations in New Jersey but indicated that such occurrences are not unusual. Mayorkas reiterated that efforts are ongoing to understand the situation and to ensure public safety.